Wagstaff Cleared and Ready as Wildcats Host Ignite Cup Game for Telethon

Perth Wildcats captain Jesse Wagstaff has declared himself fit to play in Wednesday night’s Ignite Cup Game, presented by NRW and proudly supporting Telethon, after recovering from a fractured larynx sustained in training last week.

Wagstaff described the incident as a “strange one,” explaining that while the risk was low, the potential outcome meant he had to be cautious. “If it was painful and the advice was not to play, I wouldn’t have. But it was fine. The risk is low, though the outcome can be catastrophic, so we took it seriously,” he said.

Despite the setback, Wagstaff featured in the team’s recent away game win in Cairns and said he felt no lingering effects. “It was fine on Friday, it’s still sensitive but like any fracture, it just takes time,” he said.

As the Wildcats prepare to face the Brisbane Bullets at RAC Arena, Wagstaff said the focus remains on steady improvement early in the season. “We’re four games in. You don’t want to be playing your best basketball right now. We’ve got a lot of work to do, but we’re stringing wins together while figuring things out, that’s always better than losing while you do it.”

Wagstaff praised the impact of Jo Lual-Acuil Jr., calling him a “unique signing” for his size, length and versatility. “He offers so much, his physicality, his presence, his voice. He’s been great for us so far,” Wagstaff said.

He also spoke about the competitive energy at training, saying that intensity is a key part of the Wildcats’ identity. “We’re professionals. We’re competitive. All the good teams I’ve been on have had that bit of edge at practice, it should be there,” he said.

When asked about the new Ignite Cup format, Wagstaff admitted the approach wouldn’t change. “It’s another game, and you want to win it.”

The Ignite Cup introduces an extra layer of competition this NBL season, with each team playing four additional Wednesday night games (two at home and two away).

Each matchup counts toward both the Ignite Cup standings and the regular Hungry Jacks NBL26 ladder, with teams earning three points for a win and one point for every quarter they claim.

Tied quarters award each side half a point, ensuring every period carries weight.

The top two teams at season’s end will meet in the Ignite Cup Final, where $300,000 in prize money is up for grabs for the winner.

The Perth Wildcats host the Brisbane Bullets on Wednesday night at RAC Arena in the first Ignite Cup Game of the season, proudly supporting Telethon. BRING A MATE FOR FREE