The Illawarra Hawks are set to face the Breakers in the season opener on September 20 at Spark Arena, with the NBL unveiling a bumper schedule of 165 games across 21 rounds. The new season tips off on September 19 with Melbourne United playing the Adelaide 36ers, followed by the Perth Wildcats taking on South East Melbourne. Breakers fans will then see their team begin their season against the Illawarra Hawks, with coach Gordon Herbert looking to make an impact in his first season. Herbert has previous experience in the NBA as an assistant coach with the Toronto Raptors and has brought in sharpshooter Dejan Vasiljevic on a one-year deal. The Breakers have also re-signed centre Sam Mennenga on a two-year contract. The schedule includes 20 Ignite Cup games, four themed rounds, and plenty of fixtures around Christmas, including a game against the Cairns Taipans on New Year's Eve. NBL chief operating officer Vince Crivelli said the schedule has been built for the fans, with rivalries, stars, and individual match-ups all featuring prominently. The Breakers will be looking to make a strong start to the season, with their first game against the Illawarra Hawks set to be a thrilling encounter. The team has been active in the off-season, with Herbert bringing in new players and looking to build on the team's previous performances. With 165 games scheduled, the NBL season is set to be an exciting one, with the Illawarra Hawks and Breakers both looking to make an impact. The season will also feature HoopsFest in Perth from January 13 to 17, with the Breakers set to play a key role in the tournament. As the season gets underway, fans will be eagerly anticipating the first game between the Breakers and Illawarra Hawks, with the two teams set to clash on September 20.