Wagstaff Confident in Growth as Wildcats Turn Focus to Sydney

Jesse Wagstaff says there’s plenty for the Perth Wildcats to take forward from a challenging but encouraging stretch, as the team turns its attention to Friday night’s clash with the Sydney Kings at RAC Arena.

Reflecting on the recent games against Melbourne and Adelaide, Wagstaff noted that while the finish against the 36ers was tough to swallow, the overall body of work across the past week showed the Wildcats are trending in the right direction.

“We played some really good basketball against two of the top teams,” he said, acknowledging both the disappointment of Sunday’s result and the positives in how the group handled the FIBA break and returned to form.

A key focus through the week has been tidying up short momentum swings that have affected recent performances. Wagstaff emphasised the challenge of replicating their best basketball for full games, but said the team is committed to tightening those areas.

“When we’re good, we’re really good,” he said. “It’s about finding that consistency and staying connected in those crunch-time moments.”

Wagstaff also spoke about the growth happening within the group. While the roster has spent plenty of time together, he believes the evolution is ongoing, and should be.

“You’re constantly learning throughout the season. Even if you’re winning, you should always be improving,” he said.

Sunday’s review session reflected that mindset, with the playing group responding strongly to the disappointment of the Adelaide finish. Wagstaff said the emotional investment from the team has been clear, and the response on the practice floor has been exactly what the coaches would want.

“There’s a real care factor in this group,” he said. “Guys took on the feedback, and training has been really positive.”

Looking ahead to the Kings, Wagstaff was full of respect for the opposition but firm that the Wildcats’ biggest focus lies within.

“Sydney are a really talented, well-coached side,” he said. “But for us, it’s about sharpening our offence and building on the lessons from the past couple of games.”

The Wildcats return to RAC Arena on Friday night eager to bounce back and continue pushing forward, backed by the energy of the Red Army at home.