Pledger reliable tool for Breakers

Last Sunday in Wollongong when the Breakers were unravelling like a cheap jumper, the contribution of big Alex Pledger spoke volumes about the season he is having.

There was the Breakers sevenfooter (2.15m of him, to be exact) digging in for a respectable day’s work amid the mayhem of his team disintegrating in the face of the Illawarra Hawks’ relentless pressure.

Pledger finished with the quality statline of 16 points (on seven-of11 shooting), 11 rebounds, two assists and a blocked shot. He had no turnovers either in a game where his team gifted 22 possessions to the opposition.

It has not often been the case in recent seasons, but the man they call ‘‘The Chief’’ is proving a reliable presence for the 6-5 Breakers who look to bounce back from their Wollongong walloping via a testing ANBL matchup today at the Cairns Taipans.

‘‘Those two things work hand in hand with him − being healthy and having confidence in his body,’’ Breakers coach Paul Henare said.

‘‘He’s got himself into good spots, he’s moving well, crashing the boards really well, and at seven feet you make a nuisance of yourself around the hoop.’’

Pledger is averaging 10.6 points, 7.2 rebounds and 1.2 blocks in just over 21 minutes as starting centre for the Breakers. He’s also shooting an impressive 63 percent from the floor and a not so heady 57 from the foul line.

‘‘Everything is as good as it’s been for what feels like forever,’’ Pledger said.

‘‘It’s good not to have to stress about foot problems and to go out and play with a bit of freedom.’’