Perth Wildcats' Season Concludes with Semifinals Defeat to Sydney Kings
The Perth Wildcats' 2026 NBL campaign has come to an abrupt end, as they were eliminated from the finals following a 14-point loss to the Sydney Kings in the second game of their semifinals series. The defeat, which occurred at RAC Arena on Saturday, March 14, 2026, resulted in a clean sweep for the Kings, who now progress to the grand final series.
Key Performances and Struggles for Perth
Ben Henshall delivered a standout performance for the Wildcats, scoring 20 points and keeping the team competitive, particularly in the first half where he amassed 17 points. However, his efforts were not enough to overcome the struggles of key players Kristian Doolittle and Jo Lual-Acuil, who managed only 15 and nine points respectively, well below their usual standards. This lack of firepower proved costly against the minor premiers, who emerged victorious with an 89-75 scoreline.
For the Sydney Kings, MVP runner-up Kendric Davis led the charge with 27 points, despite facing tight defence from David Duke Jnr. Davis received crucial support from Makuach Maluach, who contributed 23 points, helping to sustain the Kings' offence throughout the game.
Game Highlights and Turning Points
The Kings started the match in dominant form, hitting six of their first nine shots, including three from beyond the arc, to establish an early nine-point lead. The Wildcats responded with a 12-3 run, capped by a Pepper three-pointer at the end of the first quarter, giving them their first lead of the night.
In the second quarter, Pepper and Jesse Wagstaff extended Perth's advantage with additional three-pointers, but Sydney managed to stay within striking distance. Henshall's late long shot ensured the Wildcats entered halftime with a three-point lead.
The third quarter saw both teams struggle offensively, with only 30 points scored combined. Doolittle showed brief signs of aggression with an early three-pointer, but he and Lual-Acuil continued to falter, exemplified by a missed lay-up from the centre. A potential setback occurred when Henshall limped off late in the quarter, though he later returned.
In the final term, Wagstaff and Henshall hit three-pointers to keep Perth in contention, but Davis found his range and responded in kind. The Kings held off the Wildcats' desperate comeback attempts, with the result sealed when Torrey Craig blocked a Doolittle three-pointer in the closing minute.
Historical Context and Future Outlook
This loss marks another semifinals exit for the Perth Wildcats, who have not advanced beyond this stage since 2021. In contrast, the Sydney Kings now have the opportunity to compete for their third championship, having previously faced the Wildcats in the COVID-abridged 2020 grand final series. The Kings' victory underscores their status as title contenders, while the Wildcats will need to regroup and address their offensive inconsistencies for the next season.
