"We have to learn how to win": Koponen

For the second time in four days, the New Zealand Breakers were in a position to knock off a top four side.

But after losing to Adelaide at home on Thursday, the Breakers suffered the same fate in Sydney, despite leading for the majority of the contest.

"It's been that kind of season for our team," Breakers coach Petteri Koponen said in Sunday's post-game press conference.

"We've had four or five of these games already, where we are there controlling it but let it slip.

"But when you play on the road against a good team like Sydney, with their defensive switching, athleticism and ball pressure, you have to be more poised and we weren't today, with 21 turnovers.

"Defensively, we were also good and it gave us a chance to win the game, but a few possessions, offensive rebounds, turnovers and missed lay-ups, it wasn't to be.

"It's those small details that can prove the difference. It's frustrating but that's basketball sometimes.

"I'm happy we're competing and are right there in so many games, but it's now on us to take that next step and learn how to win."

Echoing his coach's sentiments was import big man Rob Baker II, who had 9 points, 3 rebounds, 2 steals and 1 block in the defeat.

"Obviously you're encouraged by the performance in some ways, but overall you're disappointed in the result," Baker said.

"You put in so much work to build that lead, including time at practice and implementing our game plan the right way, so to not have it go our way hurts.

"The past few games haven't gone according to plan, but there are some positives to take and we'll be ready for the next game."

The Breakers will look to return to the winners' circle when they travel to Brisbane on Wednesday night for an Ignite Cup clash with the Bullets, tipping off at 7.30pm AEDT, live on ESPN.