'I'd rather us have the money than Adelaide'

Sunday is looming as a massive moment for the NBL with the inaugural Ignite Cup Final between Adelaide and New Zealand taking place.

While the 36ers have won all three of the teams' meetings during the Hungry Jack’s NBL26 season, the Breakers’ chances of victory on the Gold Coast received a massive boost on Wednesday.

Not only will NBL Next Star Karim Lopez return to the lineup, so too will star big man Sam Mennenga, who was originally ruled out for the season with a wrist injury.

“Initially, I wasn’t supposed to come back, but once we figured out it was possible, we did everything in our power to make it happen,” Mennenga said during Wednesday’s media availability.

“[Honestly] the past few weeks have been an emotional rollercoaster, but I’ve learnt plenty from it and am keen to build on it.

“In professional sports, there are plenty of highs and lows and lessons to be learnt. It’s all about what you take take away from them, progress and look to improve.”

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The historic Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre fixture also presents the Breakers and 36ers the chance to take home a slice of the $400,000 prize pool, making the biggest winnings in the competition’s history.

“I don't really care about the money, but I'd rather us have some money than [Adelaide] have it,” Mennenga said.

“[In saying that] we don’t need any extra motivation and we’re going to do everything we can to end the season on a positive note.”

Once full-time is called on this season, Mennenga, who will be a free agent, says he has ambition to re-sign with the Breakers.

“I have no clue what the holds, I'm taking it day-by-day,” he said.

“My main focus of late has been my wrist, so only time will tell.

“[In saying that] I love being back in New Zealand and love the direction the club’s going in.

“The professionalism they've shown this season [has been incredible] and I would be more than happy to come back, be a part of something [special] and help the club win championships.”

Sunday’s Ignite Cup Final tips off at 4.30pm AEDT, live on ESPN.