Match Report: Wildcats vs Phoenix Rnd16 NBL26

Both teams came out firing in a fast-paced opening term but it was Perth who gained the early advantage through their defensive pressure as they forced eight turnovers in the quarter.

The Wildcats built their early lead through a series of momentum plays, including back-to-back steals and finishes from Ben Henshall and consistent early impact from Jo Lual-Acuil Jr, who established his presence around the rim.

South East Melbourne responded through Nathan Sobey who knocked down a three and mixed in scoring off the dribble, while Wes Iwundu and Jordan Hunter also connected from deep to keep the home side in touch.

Perth however continued to find answers with Elijah Pepper hitting big timely buckets and the Wildcats carried their advantage into the first break, leading 32-26 in a high scoring first quarter.

The pace remained high in the second term and it was Pepper who continued to ignite Perth’s offence. Pepper knocked down three first-half triples which gave the Wildcats a double-digit lead midway through the quarter.

South East Melbourne stayed connected as Angus Glover provided a spark off the bench and Nathan Sobey became more assertive. Each time South East Melbourne threatened however, Perth responded. Windler threw down a dunk off a Jaron Rillie assist and later connected from deep, while Doolittle’s physicality continued to put pressure on the home side.

At halftime, Doolittle had 15 points, six rebounds and three assists (8-of-9 at the line), while Pepper matched him with 15 points on 6-of-7 shooting, including 3-of-3 from three, to go with three steals. 

Windler added 10 points, Henshall had six points and four steals, and the Wildcats carried a 58-50 advantage into the break.

South East Melbourne lifted their intensity after halftime, turning the third quarter into a physical pressure-driven contest as SEM Phoenix continued to chip away at the margin.

Phoenix closed within two points during the quarter but Perth refused to surrender the lead, with the Wildcats taking a 79-75 advantage into the final break.

The final term was hard-fought, with South East Melbourne again applying pressure and repeatedly threatening to recapture the lead through Sobey and Brown III.

Perth responded with its most composed stretch of the night. Kristian Doolittle continued to impose himself physically, repeatedly getting to the foul line and controlling the glass, finishing with a 24-point, 12-rebound double-double.

Dylan Windler delivered when it mattered most, knocking down timely shots from deep and on the move, ending the night with a game-high 27 points and eight rebounds.

Elijah Pepper remained a constant threat, adding 18 points, four three-pointers and three steals in another efficient performance.

Inside, Lual-Acuil Jr provided strong presence at both ends, finishing with 12 points, while Henshall’s energy and defensive pressure continued to disrupt the Phoenix.

Late execution proved decisive as Perth maintained separation to close out the win.

The Wildcats won the fourth quarter 28-22, sealing a 107-97 victory and capping an impressive stretch away from home.

BOX SCORES