Wildcats survive Phoenix comeback

Perth Wildcats head coach Trevor Gleeson has described his side’s 93-92 win over the South East Melbourne Phoenix as character building.

After a dominant first half performance, the Wildcats saw a 16-point halftime lead gradually disappear, and the game was tied in the dying moments.

Through some clutch defensive plays, they were able to escape with the one-point win.

“I thought it was good for our character, to be in that position and hold on when the run of the game was going against us,” he said.

“We missed layups, we had shots bounce out, we missed foul shots, there was a lot of stuff going against us in that patch, so I was pretty happy with how they guys finished the game actually.

“I was really pleased how we weathered the storm, obviously we’ve still got to improve.”

Bryce Cotton led the way with 28 points, including a clutch layup, despite suffering a leg injury in the second half.

Todd Blanchfield had 19 points, while John Mooney had another double-double with 16 points and 11 rebounds.

Mitch Norton dished out an equal career-high eight assists, and made some clutch defensive plays down the stretch.

“Massive plays,” said captain Jesse Wagstaff of Norton’s late-game efforts.

“He does so many things well, that last charge call, the physicality – he treats everything as inconsequential and he was phenomenal out there”

The Wildcats have won their last four games - all of which have been played on the road in Melbourne.

They're back in action on Friday night, taking on the Brisbane Bullets.

Perth Wildcats 93 (Cotton 28, Blanchfield 19, Mooney 16) 

South East Melbourne 92 (Adnam 28, Creek 19, Gliddon 12)