Perth Wildcats NBL25 Team Preview

As the Pre-season NBL Blitz competition winds up and the impending NBL25 season is on the doorstep the Wildcats are as primed as ever to take another shot at an historic crown. The question is whether the concept of building around one player is future proof or will spell the doom of one of the most decorated franchises in NBL history.

The Perth Wildcats had a solid NBL24 season, highlighted by their impressive performance throughout the regular season. They secured a strong position but struggled to maintain their form towards the end of the season. The key challenge was the heavy reliance on Bryce Cotton, whose extraordinary scoring prowess was pivotal to the team's success. As the season progressed, Cotton’s workload seemed to take a toll on his performance, especially in the playoffs, leading to a need for additional scoring support.

In the off-season, the Wildcats saw several significant changes. The departure of Jordan Usher and the decision not to re-sign Corey Webster were notable. Jordan Usher's exit leaves a gap on the offensive end, while Corey Webster’s departure might impact the team’s depth and shooting. Alexander Saar’s departure was another major change; however, his loss is somewhat mitigated by the new additions.

The Wildcats have made some intriguing new additions for NBL25.

Elijah Pepper: The highly anticipated signing of Elijah Pepper, a local talent, is expected to bring significant value to the team. Known for his scoring ability and work ethic, Pepper could alleviate some of the offensive pressure on Bryce Cotton. His performance will be crucial in determining whether he can meet the high expectations placed on him.

Izan Almansa: Another key addition is Spanish prospect Izan Almansa. With a strong background in European basketball and impressive stats from his time in the G League, Almansa brings versatility and potential to the team. His performance will be watched closely as he adjusts to the NBL and works towards improving his draft stock.

Looking ahead to NBL25, the Wildcats have made some strategic moves but still have areas to address.

Scoring and Depth: The addition of Pepper is expected to provide much-needed support for Cotton, but the team still faces challenges in filling the scoring void left by Usher and Saar. The potential signing of another import player could address this gap.

Defense and Rebounding: The Wildcats’ defensive issues and rebounding struggles from last season remain a concern. The team might benefit from bringing in a defensive specialist or a strong presence in the paint, such as Tyler Cook or Angus Brandt.

Team Development: Players like Ty Webster need to step up, especially on the offensive end. Improving defense and rebounding will be crucial for the team’s success. The pre-season and early season games will be pivotal in setting the tone for their campaign.

Off-Season Grade: Overall, the Wildcats’ off-season performance can be graded as a B. The retention of key players and the addition of promising new talent are positives. However, the need for a final import signing and improvements in defense and rebounding are areas to watch. The Wildcats have maintained their competitive edge and will likely be a strong contender in NBL25 if they address these remaining issues effectively.