Rnd20 DrinkWise Game Preview: Wildcats vs Taipans NBL26

The Perth Wildcats return to RAC Arena on Friday night to host the Cairns Taipans, with a win giving the Wildcats the chance to claim fourth place outright on the NBL ladder this weekend, pending the result of Melbourne United’s game against the Adelaide 36ers on Saturday.

The matchup also marks the club’s ninth annual Pink Game, with RAC Arena set to turn pink in proud support of long-standing charity partner Breast Cancer Care WA.

With four games left in the regular season, the Wildcats will be focused on taking care of business at home.

Wildcats head coach John Rillie said the Taipans have demanded full respect in recent weeks, particularly with the way they have started games.

“If you glance over their last three games, they’re starting games really well,” Rillie said. “They’re dangerous in transition, they can shoot the three, and they’re disruptive defensively when they switch.”

With finals positioning on the line, Rillie reiterated that the Wildcats’ will continue to look inward.

“We’ve got to control our own destiny,” he said. “If we take care of business, the ladder will take care of itself.”

When the teams last met in Round 18, the Perth Wildcats delivered a dominant home performance, defeating the Cairns Taipans 106–69 in front of the Red Army.

The Wildcats blew the game open with a decisive 38–13 third quarter, sparked by a barrage of three-pointers from Elijah Pepper, as Perth surged to a commanding lead.

Pepper finished with a game-high 25 points, knocking down 7-of-9 from long range, as Perth comfortably closed out the 37-point victory with contributions across the roster.

Wildcats guard Elijah Pepper said the Wildcats’ strong form, winning seven of their past eight games, has helped the group build confidence as the season enters its final stretch.

“When you’re winning most of those games, it helps carry momentum,” Pepper said. “When you’re playing well, you find confidence.”

Pepper added that his confidence has continued to grow with his recent shooting form.

“Shots have been going in and defence has been good,” he said. “Hopefully we can keep it going and push for a top-four spot.”

Pepper said Friday night’s Pink Game carries added meaning for the playing group.

“This week has been a reminder that we’re playing for more than just basketball and points on the board,” Pepper said. “We’re playing in support of people affected by breast cancer.”

WILDCATS VS TAIPANS
Venue: RAC Arena
Date: Friday, 6 February
Time: 6:30pm AWST
Tickets: HERE