Wollongong haven't done the New Zealand Breakers any favours in their Australian basketball league playoff quest - the Hawks have posted a 100-88 home win over Gold Coast, which also dampens the Blaze's run at top qualifying spot.
The victory in Wollongong - the Hawks' 12th at home, the league's new best mark - improves their grasp on fourth place on the ANBL ladder.
The result, combined with league leaders Perth's 84-78 road win over Melbourne, also ends the champion Tigers' playoffs hopes and tightens the Wildcats' grip on top place going into the post-season.
The Breakers need to win both of their remaining matches, at home to Gold Coast on Thursday and away at Cairns on Saturday, to make the semi-finals.
