The **Perth Wildcats** secured a crucial victory against the **South East Melbourne Phoenix**, winning 101-93 at **RAC Arena** on Wednesday night. This win not only marks a significant upset over the second-placed Phoenix but also intensifies the competition for the top four spots in the **National Basketball League (NBL)** as the finals series approaches.
Perth faced a challenging start, trailing 30-18 late in the first quarter. This early deficit effectively eliminated their chances of reaching the Ignite Cup final, as they had already been ruled out of contention. The Ignite Cup final, featuring the **Adelaide 36ers** against the **New Zealand Breakers**, is set for **February 22** on the Gold Coast, with the winners receiving a prize of **$300,000**.
With this victory, the Wildcats improved their season record to 17 wins and 11 losses. They are now positioned just one win behind fourth-placed Melbourne, with only five games remaining in the regular season. The Phoenix, despite the loss, maintain their second-place standing with a record of 19 wins and 9 losses, but they are now just one win ahead of the **Sydney Kings** and two wins behind the league leaders, Adelaide.
Nathan Sobey was a standout for the Phoenix, scoring 28 points and grabbing eight rebounds, hitting six of his twelve attempts from three-point range. John Brown III contributed significantly as well, adding 20 points and 14 rebounds. However, the Wildcats mounted a comeback fueled by a strong performance from Elijah Pepper, who tallied 22 points and six rebounds, and Ben Henshall, who recorded 14 points, nine assists, and five rebounds.
As the game progressed, **Dylan Windler** emerged as a key player for Perth, scoring 23 points and securing 11 rebounds. His timely plays kept the Wildcats ahead as the margin narrowed to just five points. **Jo Lual-Acuil Jr** also made his presence felt with 18 points and six rebounds, helping to secure the victory and keep Perth’s playoff hopes alive.
The Wildcats’ performance not only showcased their potential but also highlighted the competitive nature of the NBL as teams strive for playoff positions. With the season nearing its conclusion, the intensity of the matches is expected to escalate, making every game critical for teams aiming to secure a spot in the finals.
