The New Zealand Breakers are second on points difference in Australia's National Basketball League behind South Dragons, after the Dragons beat the 36ers 106 - 100 in Adelaide.
The Dragons were cruising with a 21-point lead early in the second half, before the returning Julius Hodge inspired a 36ers fightback that fell just short.
In other results, the Wildcats beat the Taipans 101 - 85 in Cairns while the Crocs beat the Wollongong Hawks 121 - 113 in Townsville.
The Breakers beat the Dragons in Auckland last week but had a game in hand on their top of the table rivals, and have just been edged on points difference.
