DrinkWise game preview - Perth Wildcats v Melbourne United

It’s the start of a massive weekend for the Wildcats, who also take on champions Tasmania in Hobart on Sunday to complete Round 3.

The Wildcats are 1-1 heading into the round after a heart-breaking one-point loss to Sydney Kings at RAC Arena last Friday night.

Wildcats head coach John Rillie is desperate to improve on their recent home record against United, who have won eight of their last 10 games in Perth.

“Any time any team comes in on your home court and has that type of record it is disappointing,” Rillie said.

“Right now they have some type of comfort coming into RAC so we need to address that. The easiest way to address that is to win on the scoreboard.”

In a boost for the Wildcats’ hopes of bucking that trend, former NBA star and Olympic bronze medallist Matthew Dellavedova is unavailable for the clash.

Young gun Ben Henshall is set to return after missing last game with illness, but usual starter Tai Webster (calf) is out of both Round 3 clashes.

Import Dylan Windler (Achilles) and big man David Okwera (illness) will both be game-time decisions.

Henshall started the season with a bang, putting up 10 points and seven assists in the opening-round HoopsFest win over South-East Melbourne.

Fellow emerging guard Elijah Pepper stepped up in Henshall’s absence last week, scoring 18 points including five three-pointers to put his hand up for increased minutes.

“We have different guys who can step up every single night,” Pepper said.

“If there’s a starter that’s off, you’ve got three or four guys on the bench that can come in, do the same thing and help to provide that spark. It’s great having guys that can be hot every different night.”

Game details

Who: Perth Wildcats vs Melbourne United

When: 7.30pm WST Friday 4 October

Where: RAC Arena

Watch: Live on ESPN via Kayo or Foxtel

Opposition watch

Defensive beast Matthew Dellavedova’s loss is a big one for United, who have started the season with two wins from three matches.

Melbourne lost their grand final re-match against Tasmania in Hobart at the weekend after defeating the JackJumpers during HoopsFest and South-East Melbourne Phoenix last Thursday to continue their Throw Down dominance.

Former NBA player Jack White is coming off a double-double against Tassie and will be one to stop.

Last time they met

The Wildcats and United haven’t faced off since their overtime epic at John Cain Arena back in December.

United prevailed 109-103 in their Open Air clash despite the best efforts of superstar Bryce Cotton who scored 36 points and played a staggering 45 minutes.

Fellow import Jordan Usher also chimed in with 23 points.