Wildcats welcome Mark Arena as new owner

Arena, who resides in Perth after successfully following international career pursuits, has purchased the 10-time NBL champions from Sports Entertainment Group Ltd (SEG) which will become minority shareholders.

Arena plans to grow his ownership stake over future years.

Arena says he will bring a WA-first mentality to the Wildcats, taking inspiration from long-time and highly-respected former owner Jack Bendat who turned the club into a powerhouse of the competition.

“I’ve absolutely loved this team for as long as I can remember and I’m super excited to get started,” Arena said.

“I see huge potential for both basketball and for the city of Perth with the return of local ownership, and I feel strongly that we’ll be a Club that will be ‘Western Australia first’ in our intent.”

Arena wants to use his business acumen and technical skill set to create greater fan experiences, cement the team’s role as a dominant force within Australian basketball and showcase both the team and the city of Perth on a global stage.

“I want to build upon the legacy of the strong management this club has enjoyed - but add my own expertise to strengthen the Wildcats' commercial potential and community connection,” Arena said.

“Jack Bendat and those who came before and after him cemented the Wildcats as a loved team within the WA community.

“Hutchy (SEG CEO Craig Hutchison) brought the influence of a media empire to broaden the reach of the team.”

“I want to maintain both those elements but capitalise on my own technology and innovation skills to create a richer engagement between this team and its members, sponsors, the city of Perth, and the basketball community both here and internationally.”