Mills Provides Update from NBA Summer League

Perth Wildcats General Manager of Basketball Operations, Danny Mills, has provided an insight into the club’s ongoing recruiting mission as he and Head Coach John Rillie attend NBA Summer League in Las Vegas.

Speaking with Peter Hooley on the ground in Vegas, Mills confirmed the Wildcats remain patient but active in pursuing key pieces to complete their roster for NBL26.

“It’s always good to get back here, see games, see players we’ve been talking to, meet with agents, and reconnect with people around the NBA and international clubs,” Mills said. “It’s always a good time to be back in Vegas.”

Eyes on a Guard and a Big

Having already secured Christian Doolittle, Dylan Windler, Sunday Dech and Lat Mayen this offseason, Mills said the next focus is firmly on finding the right guard and a marquee big man to round out the squad.

“The needs are obvious. We’re looking for a guard and a five position as well. That search continues. We feel good about where things are at,” he explained.

While fans are eager for quick signings, Mills stressed the importance of patience, pointing out the unique dynamics of the NBL market and the domino effect of decisions in other leagues.

“The NBL is a league where we have to wait for other leagues to start making moves before players can start looking at us,” Mills said. “Finding the right piece instead of jumping early is what’s important.”

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Marquee Talent Still on the Radar

Despite significant signings already in place, Mills confirmed the club continues to explore high-profile talent, including local options, particularly for the centre spot.

“There are still some local players out there that are very high level,” he said. “We’ve had discussions and we’ll continue to evaluate who the best players are to complement who we already have.”

The Guard Blueprint

As for the guard position, Mills offered insight into the specific attributes the Wildcats are targeting.

“In a perfect world, you’re getting a floor general facilitator, a guy that can really put heat on the rim, get in the paint and make plays, whether for himself or for others,” he said.

Mills highlighted the defensive identity that is shaping the Wildcats’ plans for the upcoming season, aiming to build a versatile, two-way roster.

“We’re going to have a defensive identity this year, which we’re excited about, and we’ll continue to build on that from last year and previous seasons.”

Summer League Insights

While Summer League provides an invaluable scouting ground, Mills noted it is less about discovering new names and more about solidifying conversations with existing targets.

“It’s not really about evaluating guys playing here. It’s knowing the ones you’re targeting before you arrive, then meeting with them or their representatives while you’re here,” he said.

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Next Star Noah Kouakou-Heugue

Mills also shared his excitement about the Wildcats’ newest Next Star signing, French prospect Noa Kouakou-Heugue, fresh off the FIBA U17 World Cup with France.

“This is the third straight year we’ve had a Next Star. Alex Sarr was incredible for us. We had Izan last year, which was a great addition. And now Noa. We’re excited to get him to Perth, into our system and player development program, and see how he progresses,” Mills said.

“He’s going to have opportunities from day one, and it’s up to him to really buy into what we are about as a club and our player development program.”

With Summer League wrapping up and the global basketball market shifting into gear, Mills and the Wildcats remain focused on completing a roster they believe can challenge for an NBL championship in the season ahead.