Basketball: Breakers back Frank but Arsego is on the line

Rumours that Breakers coach Frank Arsego will resign have been shot down by the club's owners.

Chairman Keith Ward, as he did at the end of November, laughed off suggestions Arsego is no longer wanted by the franchise, who slumped to their fifth defeat in six games on Friday night when they lost 111-105 to the Melbourne Tigers.

Ward said the Australian coach had the full backing of the board. "I don't think that we can point the finger at one person," Ward said.

"As a board we have a long-term approach and only make considered decisions. We don't take any notice of the grapevine and have no interest in idle speculation.

"We have a goal of winning the league in the next five years and we are making progress towards that."

Ward, however, did admit that it would be a major disappointment if the Breakers fail to achieve their stated aim of reaching the playoffs.

While it still remains a mathematical possibility to finish in the top eight, Ward conceded the odds are now stacked against the team.

Failure to make the post season will force the owners to review their current position.

"We have an annual review at the end of the season where we will sit down with Frank, the general manager and the players.

"The coach will give us a report. We will not cut our wrists. If we think we can improve we will make some changes and go again. This board will not shirk its duties.

"We've invested millions and make tough calls if we have to."

Speculation about Arsego's future has been rife for most of the season due to the Breakers' poor form and continual talk of player unrest. The Breakers are last on the table having won only seven out of 22 games this season.

-HERALD ON SUNDAY