Bruton says 36ers 'making improvements' despite loss

Adelaide 36ers head coach CJ Bruton said his side is ‘making improvements’ despite falling 89-83 to New Zealand Breakers at Trusts Arena in Auckland on Sunday.

Bruton said the 36ers showed positive sides but couldn’t stop Breakers import Barry Brown Jnr, who hit a clutch three-pointer as he took over the game in the final quarter, to score game-high 22 points.

“When you got a guy like Brown that can come in and knock down shots the way that he did and kept pressure at the rim, he was solid tonight,” Bruton said.

“I thought we did a pretty good job and we are making improvements and strides in some areas we need to improve on.

“Just watching how the group is coming together in different patches with different guys stepping up.”

One of those players was forward Kyrin Galloway, who sparked the 36ers in the opening stanza, and finished with 13 points on 100 per cent shooting.

“Having our bench guys step up, Hyrum Harris and Kyrin Galloway all contributed when given the time,” Bruton said.

“As any team, you go find the right balance, how much to play and when to play them, which is what I’m still working on.

“The way that he (Galloway) has been progressing, warranted to play minutes and to showcase his talent as well.

“He delivered, which is great for him and great for us as well.”

Antonius Cleveland attacked the rim all night, finishing with 17 points and Robert Franks battled early foul trouble again, but finished with 14 points.

Mitch McCarron, playing his 200^th NBL match, finished with nine rebounds to go with eight points and four assists.

Bruton said his side is building, Adelaide’s next assignment in Perth on Thursday night against the Wildcats at RAC Arena.

“I like the fact that everyone is bringing that energy every single day, not that they weren’t before, but that is picked up,” Bruton said.