Perth Wildcats standout Ben Henshall is thriving in his role as the NBL point guard, a position he feels most at ease with, following a shift that has sparked a remarkable upturn in his form and the team's fortunes.
Henshall's Point Guard Prowess Drives Wildcats' Success
Since moving into the point guard spot in January 2026, Henshall has elevated his game significantly, with his averages jumping from 7.7 points and 1.9 assists per game earlier in the season to an impressive 12.1 points and 5.1 assists. This surge has been instrumental in propelling the Wildcats into fourth place on the NBL ladder, especially after David Duke's elbow injury created an opening.
Embracing a Lifelong Role
In an interview with The West Australian, Henshall emphasized his long-standing affinity for the point guard position. "I've played point guard for most of my life," he stated. "I'm comfortable with the ball in my hands and making decisions out of middle pick-and-rolls. That's where I feel the most comfortable." He noted that his development at the Centre of Excellence focused on honing these skills, though his role varied upon joining Perth due to other ball-handlers like Bryce.
Henshall expressed that many may not recognize his passing and ball-handling abilities, but his recent performances have shattered any misconceptions. His standout moment came during HoopsFest, where he tallied 15 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists against Illawarra, catching the eye of NBA scouts and boosting his reputation.
Coach's Confidence and Championship Ambitions
Wildcats coach John Rillie has shown unwavering faith in Henshall, planning to keep him as point guard even upon Duke's return against Brisbane at RAC Arena. Henshall, a Perth native, is driven by a deep-seated desire to win a championship, inspired by watching the Wildcats' past successes. "I want to win a championship. I grew up in Perth watching the Wildcats win championships. It's something I want to do," he passionately declared.
His competitive spirit is evident in his pre-game rituals, where he studies clips of opponents, particularly those his age or from his youth, to fuel his on-court intensity. "I make it known that I'm coming out to compete," Henshall added, underscoring his dedication to the game and team's goals.
