Breakers centre Freddie Gillespie is relishing the competitive nature of his positional group ahead of Sunday's NBL basketball home opener against the Southeast Melbourne Phoenix in Auckland. 

Fellow big men Sam Mennenga and Dane Pineau stepped up in the absence of the American during last week's win over the Brisbane Bullets, with the import out due to suspension. 

Mennenga led the way with 22 points and 7 rebounds in the victory and Gillespie is far from surprised. 

D'Arcy catches up with Freddie Gillespie ahead of their round two clash.  

LISTEN ABOVE