New Zealand Breakers sold to local ownership group

The New Zealand Breakers, a team in Australia's National Basketball League (NBL), have been sold to local entrepreneurs Stephen and Leon Grice, marking the end of Matt Walsh's seven-year ownership. The sale, expected to finalize soon, comes after the team struggled in recent seasons, finishing last in the league and missing the playoffs. Under Walsh, the Breakers made only two postseason appearances but had a notable playoff run in 2023. The new owners, who are involved in Rako Science, have initiated significant layoffs within the team’s front office, including CEO Lisa Edser, while retaining head coach Petteri Koppinen. This transition follows a trend in the NBL where several teams have changed hands, including the recent sale of the Tasmania JackJumpers and Perth Wildcats. The Breakers, having been established in 2003, are New Zealand's flagship basketball team despite not winning a championship since 2015.