DrinkWise Preview: Round 18 – Perth Wildcats vs Sydney Kings

Game Details

Who: Perth Wildcats vs Sydney Kings

When: 1:00pm WST Sunday 5 February

Where: RAC Arena

Watch: Live on ESPN via Kayo or Foxtel

Get your tickets! 

Context

This is a must-win matchup for the Perth Wildcats to have a chance at post-season action. Following a 71-84 loss to Cairns Taipans on Friday night, Perth needs a big win on their home court to stay in the race. Sydney have already secured their spot in the playoffs, finishing as the regular season champions.

Pre-game words

Head coach John Rillie shares his thoughts ahead of the clash with Sydney.

“We get another opportunity,” he said.

“What I like to see is who’s going to bring it and who’s going to compete, that will tell a lot about the character of this team and the character of individuals.

“When you get to this situation. You need to be a team but you also need some guys to step up and taking it for what it is and embracing the moment, when we have been put in tough situations, the team has come out with a great response.”

Roster Availability

TBA

Opponents to watch out for

NBL MVP finalist Xavier Cooks has had an incredible season and is a huge threat on both ends of the floor. He comes into this game fresh after sitting out in Sydney’s loss to Adelaide on Friday night.

Last time they met

The Perth Wildcats last met Sydney Kings in Round 16, defeating Sydney 111-104 at RAC Arena. Bryce Cotton and Brady Manek finished on 21 points a piece, while Dejan Vasiljevic top-scored for Sydney with 26 points.