Saturday night sees Hemel Storm host the Milton Keynes Breakers in the NBL Playoff Semi Final, with a spot in Manchester’s final up for grabs for the winner. Whilst Storm have won 3 of the 4 fixtures between the two teams, the Breakers will be looking to upset the Storm crowd, as it looks set to be a thrilling encounter.
From Saturday’s triumph over the Bristol Hurricanes, Storm will be full of confidence heading into the game as they look to continue the good work that they have built over the course of the season. With last week’s return of Brayden Inger adding more quality to an already impressive roster, Storm looked more solidified and were able to maintain control throughout the entire game last weekend.
Tra’Michael Moton proved a key asset for Storm, with an impressive showing from beyond the arc as he scored 23 points. Especially in the second half, Moton played a key role in creating the momentum for Storm to extend their advantage to a comfortable lead, with multiple three pointers coupled with some exceptional playmaking. The Breakers will be aware of the threat that he poses, alongside the aerial presence that Storm pose inside the paint, with the trio of Darien Nelson-Henry, Matt Ellis and Brayden Inger looking on top form.
The Breakers come into this fixture having overcome the Loughborough Riders, winning 71-68. Whilst this game proved to be low-scoring, the Breakers have proved to Storm that they can shoot with incredible accuracy, winning the first matchup between the two teams this season 100-88. Whilst the Breakers have missed the skill of KJ Johnson in the last few games, they have a deep roster that boasts experience and energy.
A key matchup inside the paint will be the battle of the former London Lion against the former Leicester Rider, as Chris Tawiah matches up against Darien Nelson-Henry again. Both players hold great intelligence in and around the rim and could prove pivotal in this fixture. Alternatively, the Breakers have looked to Jordan Spencer and Adrian Scarborough on multiple occasions, who have contributed with a significant amount of points and rebounds. Alongside these players, Romario Spence will be returning to the StormDome as a Breakers player, having been a part of the Storm side who went undefeated in the 2022/23 season.
This fixture will also bring an outstanding atmosphere with it, as both teams are backed by vociferous supporters. Previous fixtures between these two teams have shown the impact that atmospheres can make, as Storm will look to defend their home court for one last time this season.
This game is sure to be a sellout, so to ensure that you are a part of what will be a spectacular atmosphere and to avoid disappointment, make sure to secure your tickets on the Fanbase platform for what is Storm’s final game at the StormDome this season.
Written by Ollie Heathcote