Wildcats to complete NBL Blitz campaign against Taipans

The Wildcats are two from two at the annual NBL Blitz pre-season tournament after knocking off New Zealand and Illawarra respectively.

It comes after a trio of victories over B-League outfits in Japan and back-to-back wins over NBL1 West Select in Perth.

Young gun Ben Henshall, who starred in the Wildcats' most recent triumph over the Hawks on Tuesday night, said continuing the positive momentum was important heading into next week's season opener against South-East Melbourne Phoenix at RAC Arena on Friday 20 September.

"It's all momentum so I think we're in a pretty good spot come round one," Henshall said after his double-double performance.

Henshall is expected to get another starting-five opportunity, his fourth of the pre-season, with superstar Bryce Cotton (thumb) ruled out against the Taipans.

Nominated Replacement Player (NRP) Todd Withers is set to make his Wildcats NBL debut, while guard Tai Webster returns from illness.

New import Dylan Windler (ankle) is a game-time decision.

Henshall felt the competition for minutes was healthy with fellow youngsters Elijah Pepper and Michael Harris among those putting their hands up over the pre-season.

"There's a lot of really talented players in our team and anyone can have their night so whoever is feeling it is going to play more and we're all going to support each other," he said.

Wildcats v Taipans - NBL Blitz

Date: Thursday 12 September

Time: 5.30pm WST

Location: Gold Coast Sports and Leisure Centre

Watch: Live on Kayo Sports