Rnd18 DrinkWise Game Preview: Wildcats vs United NBL26

There are few matchups in the Hungry Jack's NBL that carry the same weight as the Perth Wildcats versus Melbourne United. Adding to Sunday’s Round 18 meeting at RAC Arena are the direct implications for fourth place on the NBL ladder.

Perth are one of the in-form teams in the competition, currently riding a five-game winning streak and remain unbeaten in 2026. The Wildcats are coming off a dominant 106–69 win over Cairns on Thursday night, in a result that highlighted Perth’s depth and defensive intent but Melbourne presents a far more demanding test.

United currently sit fourth on the ladder with the Wildcats one win back in fifth, with an extra game to play. This is the final regular-season meeting between the two sides before finals and the season series is split at one win apiece. The result will shape the back end of the playoff race.

Melbourne have won their past two games and will be looking to make it three straight. Their most recent outing was a 98–66 win over Brisbane at Bendigo Stadium in their final Ignite Cup fixture. Their ability to control tempo and limit scoring has been a feature of that stretch.

A familiar storyline sits at the centre of the matchup is Chris Goulding who will play his 500th career NBL game. It will be his 71st appearance against the Wildcats which is more than any opponent he has faced. Long regarded as one of the league’s elite shooters, his presence continues to dictate defensive attention.

Perth brings its own perimeter threat in Elijah Pepper who is in peak form. Pepper erupted for a game-high 25 points against Cairns shooting 7-of-9 from deep and scoring 20 points in a decisive third quarter.

Could we see a Pepper v Goulding shootout on Sunday?

Kristian Doolittle also remains a constant for the Wildcats. He finished with 19 points on 60% shooting and four rebounds against the Taipans on Thursday night. His performances continue to be built on efficiency and physicality.

This matchup rarely hinges on hype. It comes down to execution under pressure and discipline. Sunday shapes as another defining chapter in a rivalry that continues to set the standard in the NBL.

The Perth Wildcats Multicultural Game:

WILDCATS VS UNITED.
Venue: RAC Arena
Date: Sunday, 25 January
Time: 1:30pm AWST
Tickets: HERE