Reuben Te Rangi Reaches Historic 400-Game NBL Milestone Amid Narrow Loss in Cairns

BNZ Breakers co-captain Reuben Te Rangi etched his name into the history books on Sunday, 25 October 2026, marking his 400th Australian NBL appearance. The 32-year-old veteran forward, who hails from Manurewa, reached the landmark during an away clash against the Cairns Taipans at the Cairns Convention Centre. Having dedicated 15 years to the professional league, Te Rangi has earned the affectionate nickname "Koro" from his teammates in recognition of his extensive experience and leadership. As reported by Waatea News, the milestone was a collective achievement for Te Rangi, who credited the support of his partner, children, and parents for his longevity in the sport. In his milestone game, Te Rangi contributed three points, two rebounds, and two steals. Despite the individual achievement, the Breakers suffered an agonizing 86-84 defeat in a dramatic contest that saw the Auckland-based side fall just short in the final seconds. The Breakers showed significant promise early, leading 25-16 in the first quarter and holding a 46-39 advantage at halftime. However, a late-game surge by Cairns, led by Keanu Pinder and Reyne Smith, eventually tipped the scales. Young guard Carlin Davison, who recorded eight points and eight rebounds, and teammate Mojave King both had late opportunities to level or win the game, but their final attempts at the buzzer failed to drop. The Breakers received a vital personnel boost with the return of star point guard and captain Parker Jackson-Cartwright from a lower-leg injury. Jackson-Cartwright, who entered the match leading the league in scoring, saw restricted minutes but provided 14 points and nine assists. Sam Mennenga delivered a standout performance against his former club, racking up 22 points, eight rebounds, and four assists. For Cairns, Charles Bediako recorded a double-double with 15 points and 10 rebounds. Assistant coach Sebastian Gleim led the side from the sideline as head coach Gordie Herbert continues his recovery from illness. Following a demanding five-match road stretch, the Breakers now return home with a 4-5 record. They are scheduled to face the Adelaide 36ers at Spark Arena on Friday, 30 October, at 7.30pm. This return to Auckland will allow local fans and whanau to acknowledge Te Rangi’s contribution to the game in person as the squad looks to maintain their position within the NBL top four.