Young duo locked in for NBL26

The Wildcats will pick up second-year team options for sharpshooting guard Pepper and hard-working Development Player Gerovich.

Australian-born, US-raised Pepper impressed in his debut season in the NBL, providing some firepower off the bench.

The 23-year-old averaged 7.1 points, 2.2 rebounds and 1.2 assists per game.

He reached double-digit points a dozen times throughout NBL25 including a season-high 18 points Sydney Kings at RAC Arena on September 27 and four games in a row across late October and early November.

Pepper also had some starting-five opportunities after injuries to fellow guards Bryce Cotton and Tai Webster.

Gerovich, a 20-year-old power forward from WA, made two appearances for the Wildcats in NBL25.

“We’re excited about the development of both of these guys heading into their second season in the NBL,” Wildcats General Manager of Basketball Operations Danny Mills said.

“Elijah made the most of his opportunities in NBL25 and had some really impactful games off the bench.

“We expect him to build on his impressive debut season at the Wildcats and push for more minutes.

“Tom’s work ethic on the practice court really stood out after he joined our program last off-season.

“He’s still only 20 years old and we believe he’ll keep improving with another NBL pre-season under his belt.”

Both Pepper and Gerovich will remain in Perth during the off-season.

Pepper has signed for NBL1 West outfit Warwick Senators, while Gerovich will continue for last season’s grand finalists Willetton.

It comes after star import Kristian Doolittle signed a three-year contract extension, while record-breaking skipper Jesse Wagstaff will continue his remarkable Wildcats career into a 17th season.

The club will continue to focus on completing its roster with the opening of the free agency period on Friday 4 April.