Harris credits Otago, Martin for helping defensive game

Harris, known for his shooting, has added another string to his bow this season in a bid to get increased minutes.

The second-year development player has got on the court in all 12 of the Wildcats’ matches to date in NBL24 after starring for the fellow SEN-owned Nuggets during the off-season.

“He was obviously with me at Otago,” Harris said about Martin, who is an assistant coach at both the Wildcats and Nuggets.

“He told me if you want to play big minutes this year you are going to have to play some defence.

“The process started with really trying to shut down the imports in that league.

“He was always on me every week, showing me film, showing me things I should be doing on defence. He’s been a big part of my growth as a player.

“Having Gerard there as someone who is telling me what I need to be doing and what I need to be working on, that’s coming directly from the Perth Wildcats.

“Obviously, it was good to be over there and knowing what I need to do in the off-season to be a better player for the Perth Wildcats.”

While he conceded he his shooting hasn’t been at its best, Harris felt he was ready to help out the team in other ways.

“I’m just ready to come in, play defence, rebound and do the little things. I guess that’s what I get tapped on the shoulder for,” he said.

“It would be nice to hit some shots. I haven’t been hitting as many as I probably should have. I’m just ready to do whatever is necessary to help us win.

“It’s definitely different when I don’t hit many shots and I stay out on the floor because I’m bringing other things.

"It’s something I’m pretty proud of because I wasn’t known as much of a defensive guy or a rebounding guy. I was more ‘he’s a scorer and that’s it.’ I’m pretty proud I can be on the floor for other reasons.”

The Wildcats return to action after the FIBA break against reigning champs Sydney at RAC Arena on December 1.

Get your tickets here