The New Zealand Breakers basketball franchise believes its deservedly shaken off the easy beat tag.
They'll open their 6th Australian national Basketball League season this evening against the Wollongong Hawks in Auckland.
Last season the Breakers made the playoffs for the first time.
Coach Andrej Lemanis says they've now been able to establish respect in the league.
The Breakers will open their campaign with five straight homes games, before going on the road.
