How a tough schedule is helping the Wildcats

Perth Wildcats coach Trevor Gleeson said the team’s gruelling schedule over the last three weeks is great preparation for the challenges of a post-season.

The Wildcats played five games in 11 days, before a rare week at home ahead of Friday’s clash with the Bullets.

“When you’re looking down the track and you’re building, and hopefully we make the playoffs, the playoff schedules are rough,” he said.

“The physicality, the pressure is all tough. And that is a similar situation to when you’re tired. Can you get through and do the things you need to do to win the game, when you’re under duress?

“This season we’ve done really well and that’s something we’ve got to continue to build on.”

Gleeson gave his team a two-day break to begin the week, allowing the players to rest physically and mentally before hitting the training track again on Wednesday.

The Wildcats play Brisbane on Friday night, and needless to say, Nathan Sobey will be a focus.

“He’s been sensational, he has the ball in his hands and he’s quick, he can shoot the three, he’s the second leading scorer for the NBL, so he will be a handful without a question.”

Fans can expect a numbers of players to be assigned Sobey on the defensive end throughout the game, including Mitch Norton, Bryce Cotton, Todd Blanchfield and Clint Steindl.

Perth and Brisbane have only met once this season, with the Bullets taking the honours on the neutral territory of the NBL Cup.

“They’ve been hit with injuries, made some changes with new imports, Patterson coming in, so there’s a little bit of change happening, so we’re just worried about ourselves,” he said.

“If we play the right way, play the level we need to play at, we’re confident that we’ll get a win against anybody.”

Tip-off on Friday night is at 7.30pm at RAC Arena. Tickets available here.

As part of the game night, the Perth Wildcats will acknowledge those who have sacrificed for our country ahead of ANZAC Day, with a pre-game ceremony.

Poppies will be available for purchase at the game un support of the RSL.