Perth Wildcats Rally Late to Beat Phoenix in Gritty NBL Statement Win
Pressure was building inside RAC Arena and the Perth Wildcats knew this was a moment that could define their season.
Trailing at every break, down after the first quarter, behind at halftime and still chasing heading into the final period, Perth found themselves in a familiar but dangerous position. Against a confident South East Melbourne Phoenix side, this was the kind of game that can slip away quickly. Instead, the Wildcats dug in, lifted their defensive intensity and delivered when it mattered most.
This was not a flashy win. It was a tough one. And that is exactly why it matters.
South East Melbourne controlled the early stages, knocking down shots from deep and forcing Perth to play catch-up. The Wildcats had answers in short bursts, but consistency was hard to find. Every time momentum seemed to turn, the Phoenix pushed back, keeping their noses in front through three quarters.
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But the final ten minutes told a different story.
Perth came out with urgency. The ball moved quicker. The defense tightened. The crowd sensed the shift and the energy inside the arena rose sharply. Big plays started coming at critical moments. Stops turned into scores. And suddenly, the Wildcats were dictating terms.
Elijah Pepper stepped up with calm shot-making and fearless drives. Dylan Windler made his presence felt on both ends, controlling the glass and finishing key possessions. Jo Lual-Acuil Jr anchored the defense, altering shots and protecting the paint until his late foul trouble. Veteran captain Jesse Wagstaff provided exactly what leaders do, timely energy, smart decisions and a massive three that widened the gap when nerves were high.
South East Melbourne had chances late, but missed shots and strong Perth rebounding shut the door. When the final buzzer sounded, the Wildcats had completed a 101 to 93 comeback win that felt heavier than just another result on the ladder.
This game carried extra weight. Played as Perth’s Mental Health Game, every free throw contributed to support services, adding purpose to every trip to the line. That context mattered and the players clearly understood it.
For the Wildcats, this victory reinforces belief. It shows resilience. It shows depth. And it shows they can win even when things are not going their way early. For the Phoenix, it is a reminder that closing games on the road in the NBL is unforgiving.
Perth now moves forward with momentum, confidence and a clear message to the rest of the league.
Stay with us for continuing coverage, deeper analysis and all the stories that shape the NBL season as it unfolds.
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