Match Report: Wildcats vs Hawks HoopsFest NBL26

The Perth Wildcats held firm to fight off a resilient Hawks outfit, defeating Illawarra 92–87 in a HoopsFest clash that saw the Wildcats in front at every break.

Perth set the tone early and took an 18–13 lead into quarter time, punctuated by Ben Henshall knocking down a three late in the term to push the margin out to five.

The Wildcats’ defensive pressure was active from the outset, with Jo Lual-Acuil Jr coming up with an early steal and Perth repeatedly creating extra chances through their work on the glass.

Illawarra kept coming, but the Wildcats maintained their composure through the second quarter to take a 44–37 advantage into the main break.

Wani Swaka Lo Buluk provided a lift for the Hawks with multiple triples in the period.

Elijah Pepper added a three of his own for the Wildcats as Perth absorbed the Hawks’ runs and kept control of the scoreboard.

Perth continued to dictate after half-time, carrying a 65–58 lead into the final change. 

The third quarter featured an important stretch where Dylan Windler finished above the rim off a steal and later buried a three, while Lual-Acuil Jr imposed himself inside with strong finishes, including a dunk that helped keep the Wildcats’ momentum rolling. 

Jesse Wagstaff also made his presence felt around the basket, converting on the offensive glass to steady Perth whenever Illawarra threatened.

The Hawks made one last surge in the final minutes, closing the gap through a series of late shots including triples from Todd Blanchfield and Johny Narkle, while William Hickey sparked a flurry with two late threes, a steal and a floating finish as the contest tightened.

Each time the pressure rose, Perth answered with poise at the line. Kristian Doolittle repeatedly drew contact in the closing stages and converted crucial free throws. Pepper also stepped up from the stripe as the Wildcats shut the door.

Lual-Acuil Jr added an important late dunk to restore breathing room, and despite Illawarra’s final push, Perth’s ability to execute in the decisive moments ensured the Wildcats finished on top, 92–87.

Kristian Doolittle led the way with a strong double-double, finishing with 21 points and 11 rebounds, repeatedly drawing contact and converting at the line in key moments.

Ben Henshall delivered a standout performance with 15 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists. 

Jo Lual-Acuil Jr was a constant presence inside with 20 points and 7 rebounds on efficient shooting. 

Dylan Windler rounded out the top contributors, recording 11 points and 10 rebounds.

BOX SCORES