DrinkWise game preview - Round 10: Wildcats v Bullets

Wildcats coach John Rillie believes Doolittle’s inclusion, after he played just seven minutes against the Bullets last time around when James Batemon exploded with 51 points, is a massive boost for their hopes of stopping the import.

The Wildcats become the first WA professional sporting team to wear the 16 Days in WA campaign's orange colour in a competitive fixture when they clash with the Bullets.

The Bullets have also jumped on the special cause, which seeks to end violence against women and shed a light on the issue.

“The guy defending him has his job, the guys on the ball, off the ball have their job, and he does a great job of understanding the moment where the team relaxes,” Rillie said.

“He’s shooting the three at over 50 per cent this season, so you give someone like him or Chris Goulding that opportunity … it’s tough. 

“Doolittle is usually that guy for us, because Batemon’s a physical guard and Doolittle’s a physical presence, but he wasn’t on the floor (last time), and he has a willingness to take on those moments. 

“If 51 doesn’t get your attention, it never will, but in saying that, it’s a team sport and you can’t forget about the other guys they’ve got on their team as well.” 

The Wildcats will however be missing speedster Tai Webster, who has been ruled out of both this weekend’s home double-header against the Bullets (on Friday) and New Zealand (on Sunday).

The Bullets have been hit hard, with Josh Bannan (ankle), Tohi Smith-Milner (concussion) and Deng Adel (hand) joining Jarred Bairstow (ankle) on the sidelines.

They will be strengthened by the return of former Wildcats import Casey Prather, who hasn’t played at RAC Arena as an opposition player since 2017.

The Wildcats will monitor Izan Almansa, Ben Henshall and Hyrum Harris after they travelled extensively while representing Spain, Australia and New Zealand during the international window.

All three impressed for their respective countries, with Almansa making his senior debut for Spain.

Game details

Who: Perth Wildcats vs Brisbane Bullets

When: 6.30pm WST Friday 29 November

Where: John Cain Arena

Watch: Live on ESPN via Kayo or Foxtel

Opposition watch

The Bullets returned to form in their last clash against the Wildcats, less than a fortnight ago.

They currently sit seventh on the NBL ladder with a 4-6 record.

James Batemon is the obvious danger man, but there’s plenty of other offensive weapons.

But it will be a different-looking side with three players injured during the break and Casey Prather returning.

Last time they met

James Batemon scored a record-breaking 51 points as the Bullets defeated the Wildcats 105-84 at Brisbane Entertainment Centre before the FIBA break.

Batemon’s haul was the biggest of the current 40-minute era and a record for the franchise.

Keanu Pinder (27 points) top-scored for the Wildcats, with Dylan Windler (nine points and 11 rebounds) and Tai Webster (11 points, three rebounds and two blocks) also contributing.