'Always up for a challenge': Windler reflects on Batemon assignment

Last time the Wildcats and Bullets met less than a fortnight ago, Batemon dropped a record-breaking 51 points to help his team easily take the win at Brisbane Entertainment Centre.

But with plenty of time to think about it over the FIBA break, Wildcats coach John Rillie knew Windler was the right man for the job.

And Rillie was spot on as Windler restricted Batemon to just 10 points, while scoring 15 of his own to go with four rebounds, three assists and a block in the 117-89 thrashing.

"You don't just pick anyone for that job, he was the right guy for the job and I challenged him (Windler) with it and he responded very well," Rillie said.

"What everyone is starting to see with Dylan is that he's starting to understand the league, he's getting healthy and you can see he's a really good player which is the reason he was a first-round (NBA) draft pick.

"He can play both ends of the floor and he can impact the game in many different ways. Some nights it's rebounding, scoring, moving the ball and just making great basketball plays.

"I think his teammates understand him a lot better as who he is as a player now too and have a lot of confidence in him as well."

Dylan Windler answered the call! ☎️

He spoke to the media about his big performance on the defensive end tonight.

Watch the full presser: https://t.co/WUsrMcQuOa pic.twitter.com/L6zjeTgEf1

— Perth Wildcats (@PerthWildcats) November 29, 2024

Windler, who only found who about the assignment on the eve of the match, said he looked forward to challenges like that.

“I’m always up for a challenge,” Windler said.

“When your coach comes to you and gives you that assignment, you look forward to it and you step up to the occasion. I felt good. That was my main focus going in - being solid on the defensive end, making him work and making it a long night for him. I think I did a good job of that and making him earn every shot he had.

“I spent time looking at his film but at the end of the day it’s just effort. You’ve got to be willing to chase them and stay disciplined.”

Remarkably, Batemon scored just three points while Windler was defending him, the other seven came when he was on the bench.

Windler and the Wildcats are back in action on Sunday for the second leg of a home double-header at RAC Arena, against New Zealand Breakers from 1.30pm.

Get your tickets here