The Perth Wildcats have claimed a hard-fought victory on their home court, defeating the South East Melbourne Phoenix 95-87 in a tense NBL clash at RAC Arena. However, the win was overshadowed by a late-game injury to promising guard Jaron Rillie, who suffered a hamstring issue that forced him from the court.
Wildcats Hold Firm in Tense Fourth Quarter
The match was a tightly contested affair for much of the night, with the Wildcats managing to establish a slender lead heading into the final period. The home team entered the fourth quarter with a 71-68 advantage, setting the stage for a dramatic finish. Key contributions came from across the roster, with Kristian Doolittle leading the scoring charge for Perth. Doolittle finished the game with an impressive 23 points and 9 rebounds, proving to be a constant threat on both ends of the floor.
He was ably supported by guard Bryce Cotton, who added 19 points to the Wildcats' total. For the visiting Phoenix, star import Abdel Nader top-scored with 19 points, while Mitch Creek fought hard for his 17 points and 7 rebounds. Despite their efforts, the Phoenix couldn't close the gap in the dying minutes as the Wildcats executed their plays and made crucial free throws to seal the eight-point win.
Rillie's Hamstring Injury Casts a Shadow
The major concern for the Wildcats emerged in the final minutes of the contest. Young guard Jaron Rillie, who had provided valuable minutes off the bench, pulled up clutching his hamstring during a defensive possession. He was immediately subbed out of the game and watched the remainder from the sidelines. The severity of the injury is not yet known, but hamstring issues can often lead to a significant period on the sidelines, which would be a blow for both the player and the team.
Rillie has been a developing talent for the Wildcats this season, and his energy and playmaking will be missed if he faces a lengthy absence. The club is expected to provide a further update following scans and assessment by their medical team in the coming days.
What This Result Means for the NBL Ladder
This victory is significant for the Perth Wildcats' positioning as the NBL season progresses. The win improves their record to 11 wins and 10 losses, strengthening their hold on a playoff spot. Every win is crucial in the highly competitive league, and securing a victory against a direct rival like the Phoenix provides a vital boost in confidence and ladder position.
For the South East Melbourne Phoenix, the loss is a setback in their own campaign. They will need to regroup quickly as they aim to stay in touch with the top four. The Wildcats, meanwhile, will enjoy the win but now face the anxious wait regarding Jaron Rillie's fitness. The team's depth will be tested as they look to maintain their momentum in their next fixture.
The Perth Wildcats' next challenge will be to prepare for their upcoming match while managing the fallout from this injury. The team's ability to adapt could define this crucial stage of their season.
