Are the Breakers New Zealand’s greatest ever Sporting Franchise?

Evidence over the past couple of weeks is starting to suggest this is fact.

The Breakers are constantly succeeding where a multitude of other New Zealand teams seem unable to consistently achieve in the uber-competitive Australasian sporting market.

The Crusaders previously held this title (pretty much uncontested at that) but with it being 2008 since their last Super Rugby title way back when Rob Deans was coach (remember him?) their time appears almost up as their 2 franchise players (McCaw & Carter) get ready to depart.

The Phoenix are gutsy mob with a fantastic set of loyal fans but you get the sense that Hell’s going to freeze over before the Australians (and in particular the rather shady folk at FFA) let them win a title. One appearance in a major semi-final has been their lot over ten plus years although things are looking more promising as this is written.

The Warriors – ah the dear old Warriors. 20 years this year in what is probably the world’s toughest competition has seen so many false dawns you almost start to feel sorry for their fan base. Soundly beaten in 2 grand finals has been their lot over this time.

Which brings us to the New Zealand Breakers. Unlike other Franchises, the growing pains experienced over the first few years of their existence were put to good use, where it became obvious that the benefits of “hands off” private ownership (compare the Blackwell’s to Mr Morgan) coupled with a commitment to the same coach over an extended period (cue Andre Lemanis) blended with a solid core of New Zealand talent moulded with some crafty Aussie veterans and the usual mix of American Superstardom would lead to success.

It did.

Three titles on the bounce were followed by the team missing out on the playoffs last year in what was clearly an unacceptable result but there was no panic, rushed sacking of coaches or hand wringing just a “lets re-tool and get back to business” which has resulted in one of the deepest line-ups and potentially greatest teams being assembled in ANBL history.

(More) New Zealand sporting history is being made this afternoon – don’t miss it, although if you do chances are the Breakers will be in the same position this time next year.