Basketball: Productive Breakers put community before Melbourne game

PG Arena general manager Dan Rodden says the Breakers will interact with the Hawke's Bay public this afternoon and it's free of charge. Photo/File

Basketball fans have a great opportunity to not only meet some of the New Zealand Breakers stars today in Napier but also pick their brains.

From 3pm to 4.30pm basketball faithful have a chance to test their skills against the SkyCity-sponsored team at the Pettigrew Green Arena, Taradale, before their preseason game against Melbourne United from 2pm at the same venue tomorrow.

PG Arena general manager Dan Rodden says it's an ideal time for the community to absorb the big-time atmosphere that Australian National Basketball League franchise teams are renowned for.

"I guess the atmosphere these players bring can provide some inspiration to some young Hawke's Bay kids who don't get to see them often," says Rodden of the arena, Destination Napier and Courage Trust initiative.

"I thought it was a good opportunity to meet the values of our respective organisations," he says of the second invite to the Breakers.

Fans will be able to take photos and collect autographs from the players and test their basketball skills.

"They [fans] can ask them [players] a question which can be something that resonates with them much longer in their lives and may turn them towards succeeding in basketball."

Rodden says they can buy Breakers merchandise and tickets to Sunday's game although fans can join in a competition to win free tickets and upgraded seats to the game.

Bay basketball coaches also have a chance to sit down with their Breakers counterparts for a development session. Emerging elite players can consult the franchise coaching stable about paving their careers as well.

"Paul Henare and his coaches will be doing a session at the same time in the Lady Pettigrew Theatre where local coaches can come ask a few questions and find out a few tactics and what's happening in the world of basketball," says Rodden.

"The event is free and open to all with no booking necessary."

Tickets are available via Ticketek for tomorrow's game. Adults $27, children $17, or $69 for a family pass (two adults and two children).