Wildcats' Dominating Victory in NBL Finals Opener
The Perth Wildcats, despite facing an early setback, showcased their resilience and talent in a thrilling 122-105 victory over the South East Melbourne Phoenix in the opening game of the NBL finals. The game, played at the Perth High Performance Centre due to the unavailability of RAC Arena, was a high-scoring spectacle that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the very end. The Wildcats' explosive start was quickly countered by the Phoenix's determined comeback, leading to a nail-biting contest.
A Rollercoaster First Half
The Wildcats began with a dominant 20-4 run, quickly establishing their presence. However, the Phoenix fought back fiercely, showcasing their offensive capabilities and erasing the initial deficit. The first half concluded with the Phoenix holding a narrow 67-62 lead, marking the highest-scoring first half in a 40-minute NBL game, highlighting the dynamic and fast-paced nature of the match. The sheer number of points, combined with a significant number of free throws, painted a picture of intense competition and numerous scoring opportunities for both teams.
The Phoenix's Surge
The Phoenix's resurgence was largely fueled by Angus Glover's outstanding performance. After a slow start, Glover ignited the Phoenix's offense, scoring 15 points in the first quarter alone, with four three-point shots. This impressive scoring spree helped spearhead a 14-0 run that turned the game on its head. The second quarter saw the Phoenix pour in 39 points, creating a significant swing in momentum going into halftime.
The Wildcats' Second-Half Surge and Triumph
The Wildcats, however, were not to be outdone. They demonstrated their championship mettle by outscoring the Phoenix 35-9 during a crucial stretch bridging the third and fourth quarters. This decisive run was punctuated by the remarkable performance of Keanu Pinder, who ended the game with 35 points and 11 rebounds, forming a formidable presence in the paint. His dominant performance was particularly evident in his battles with Matt Hurt, the Phoenix's forward, who finished with 24 points and 3 steals. Pinder’s dunk in the fourth quarter showcased his athleticism and further ignited the Wildcats' momentum, securing the 17-point victory.
A Balanced Wildcats' Attack
The Wildcats' success was not solely reliant on Pinder’s exceptional performance. Their offensive strength stemmed from a balanced contribution across the team. Bryce Cotton, the five-time MVP, added 27 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists to the winning effort. Kristian Doolittle’s 20 points, 11 rebounds, and 5 assists, Dylan Windler's 13 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 blocks, and Ben Henshall’s 11 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists demonstrated the team’s overall depth and offensive prowess. Their combined efforts proved too much for the Phoenix to overcome.
The Aftermath and Coach's Perspective
The game ended with a combined 227 points, with 66 of them resulting from free throws. The high number of free throws prompted coach Josh King of the Phoenix to express his view that the sheer volume of foul calls significantly impacted the flow and the overall enjoyment of the game. He cited the 77 total foul attempts and the disparity in free throw attempts (42 for Wildcats, 35 for Phoenix) as contributing factors to the game’s interruptions and overall “ugly” aspects. In contrast, Wildcats coach John Rillie expressed satisfaction with his team's performance, highlighting their second-half comeback and the growing trust and belief within the team.
The Phoenix, despite the loss, still have another opportunity to secure a spot in the next round, awaiting the outcome of the match between Sydney and Adelaide. For the Wildcats, the win guarantees them a much-needed extended break before their next playoff clash against Melbourne United. The Wildcats' triumph is a testament to their ability to adapt and overcome adversity, showcasing their strength and determination as they progress in their quest for the championship.
This high-octane game provided more than just an exciting match. It showcased a clash of styles and demonstrated the determination and depth within both teams. The sheer number of points and the rollercoaster nature of the game captivated viewers, guaranteeing an exciting future for the rest of the NBL playoffs. The Wildcats proved their mettle and will now look to continue their winning streak into the next round. The Phoenix, on the other hand, will have to regroup and refocus their efforts in the upcoming game to ensure they continue their postseason journey. The season’s not over yet.
