Perth Wildcats Clinch Playoff Spot with Dominant Win Over Phoenix

The Perth Wildcats secured their place in the NBL semi-finals with a resounding 122-105 victory over the South East Melbourne Phoenix in the seeding qualifier. The game, played at the Perth High-Performance Centre, was a high-scoring affair marked by a significant disparity in foul calls, a point of contention for Phoenix coach Josh King.

A Foul-Filled Affair

The game witnessed a staggering total of 54 fouls, resulting in 77 free throw attempts. The Wildcats capitalized on this, sinking 39 of their 42 attempts, with Bryce Cotton alone making 14 of 15. The Phoenix, while also benefiting from the abundance of free throws (making 27 of 35), couldn't overcome the disparity. Coach King expressed his frustration, stating the game was "boring" and "not fun to watch", emphasizing the need to "let the guys play." He even declared he wouldn't watch a replay. The sheer number of fouls called seemed to impact the flow of the game, with a foul often called each time either team went into offense.

The Statistical Discrepancy

The Wildcats' free throw success rate greatly exceeded their season average of 23 attempts per game. Similarly, the Phoenix's 35 attempts, while considerable, still fell short of their season average of 21. This unusual stat line painted a picture of a game dictated as much by refereeing decisions as by on-court skill.

Pinder's Dominance Fuels Wildcats' Victory

While the foul count dominated the narrative, Keanu Pinder's performance stole the show. He delivered a career-high 35 points, adding 11 rebounds, making it his fourth double-double in five games. His impact was particularly evident in the first and third quarters, where he consistently outplayed his counterpart. His impressive performance included three three-pointers, 11 successful field goals from 13 attempts and two crucial blocks in the third quarter that helped turn the tide.

Supporting Cast

Beyond Pinder's brilliance, other Wildcats stepped up. Bryce Cotton, the recently crowned five-time NBL MVP, chipped in with 27 points, demonstrating his consistent excellence. Kristian Doolittle also recorded a double-double (20 points, 11 rebounds), despite foul trouble limiting his court time. Dylan Windler contributed 13 points and nine rebounds, just shy of another double-double, showcasing the team's collective strength.

Phoenix Fight Back, but Wildcats' Strength Prevails

The Phoenix, despite the officiating, showed resilience. They boasted three players exceeding 20 points: Angus Glover (25), Matt Hurt (24), and Nathan Sobey (22). Glover's contribution was particularly significant, especially in the early stages, marking his 150th NBL game. The Phoenix even managed a brief lead, and their 67-62 advantage at half-time demonstrated their ability to compete despite the unfavorable circumstances. However, the Wildcats' superior rebounding (57-36) and Pinder's explosive scoring in the third and fourth quarters proved too much to overcome. The Wildcats controlled the boards, giving them numerous extra possessions and ultimately leading them to a comfortable victory.

The Road Ahead for Both Teams

The win sends the Wildcats into a semi-final series against Melbourne United, with dates to be confirmed after the FIBA break. The Phoenix will need to regroup for a play-in game against either the Sydney Kings or the Adelaide 36ers. Perth coach John Rillie plans to approach the extended break strategically, drawing on lessons from last season's similar experience, including an extended time off between games, before they meet the next challenge. The Phoenix will be keen to address their defensive issues, especially the excessive fouls leading to their opponents' numerous free throw attempts, and to ensure the team is ready for what lies ahead. The Wildcats, despite their victory, will also focus on maintaining their momentum and improving consistency to navigate the playoffs successfully.

Looking Ahead, Reflections on a High-Scoring Encounter

The Wildcats' win emphasizes the importance of consistent performance in a highly competitive league. The game served as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of basketball, highlighting both the individual brilliance and team dynamics that determine success. The disparity in free throws definitely leaves room for discussion on officiating, but ultimately, the Perth Wildcats' victory stands as a testament to their resilience and the exceptional talent of players like Keanu Pinder. The question is: Can they maintain this winning streak into the semi-finals? Only time will tell. The future holds exciting possibilities for both teams, but the Wildcats have clearly demonstrated their capacity to dominate. Their next challenge will be a true test of their championship mettle.