Wildcats fall at final hurdle

Details
Perth Wildcats 100 defeated by South East Melbourne Phoenix 102
RAC Arena
Box Score
24 April 2022

Summary
The equation was simple, the Perth Wildcats needed to win to qualify for the 2022 NBL Finals, but unfortunately it wasn’t to be. The home team started well, holding a lead for the majority of the first three quarters but were unable to shake the Phoenix. After taking the advantage in the fourth, the Wildcats fought their way back from six points down to force overtime. The two teams traded bucket in the bonus period. South East Melbourne took the lead in the final two minutes and despite some good looks and gutsy defensive efforts from Perth, it wasn’t their night.

Reaction
Scott Morrison’s message to fans
“It obviously wasn’t the result we were hoping for, either tonight or over the course of the season. I just wanted to thank the fans, the Red Army, for sticking with us, It was really loud in there tonight, it was a big contribution at every home game. I’m sorry we didn’t meet your expectations.”

Jesse Wagstaff on his initial feelings
“A range of emotions. It’s not a great feeling… We were always in control of our own destiny. We never had to rely on other teams losing, it was always in our control and unfortunately we couldn’t get over that last hurdle.”

Player focus
Bryce Cotton gave it his all, finishing with 28 points and eight assists, while Michael Frazier II had a season-high 22 points.

Key stats and facts
The three-ball wouldn’t fall for the Wildcats tonight, finishing with 24 per cent from range. The Wildcats managed to outrebound the Phoenix 52-45.
Bryce Cotton hit 88 three-pointers, his most I na regular season. He finishes the year on 499 career triples.