Rnd18 DrinkWise Game Preview: Wildcats vs Taipans

The Perth Wildcats return to RAC Arena for Pride Round on Thursday night, riding a four-game winning streak and looking to make it five as they continue their climb up the NBL ladder.

Perth come into the matchup full of confidence following their HoopsFest win over the Illawarra Hawks and currently sit fifth, firmly in the playoff mix.

The Wildcats will also take confidence from their most recent meeting with the Cairns Taipans, where they delivered a dominant 110-78 victory in Cairns earlier this season.

Despite the strong run of form, head coach John Rillie has been clear that the focus remains on consistency and execution rather than results elsewhere.

“We’re just challenging ourselves to look after our own business,” Rillie said. “If we do that, good things will happen for us.”

Rillie pointed to improved continuity within the group as a key factor behind the Wildcats’ recent performances over the past six to eight weeks.

Cairns land in Perth sitting ninth and looking to respond after a HoopsFest loss to the New Zealand Breakers.

Andrew Andrews has been in strong form in recent weeks, while Jack McVeigh continues to provide scoring versatility, with Cairns capable of spreading the floor and generating offence from multiple positions when they find rhythm.

Within the Wildcats group, Dylan Windler said the momentum has been driven by a positive energy and collective buy-in.

“There’s a good energy about the group right now,” Windler said. “Obviously winning games helps, but we’ve been able to rally with what we have and stay connected.”

This game presents another opportunity for the Wildcats to do exactly that, as they look to take care of business and extend their winning run at home in front of the Red Army.

PERTH WILDCATS VS CAIRNS TAIPANS
Venue: RAC Arena
Date: Thursday, 22 January
Time: 6:30pm AWST
Tickets: HERE