Code Sports NBL Blitz Match Report: Wildcats v Hawks
Written By
Daniel Gawned
First Quarter - Windler catches fire
The Hawks struck first with a deep three, but Dylan Windler wasted no time in announcing himself to the sold out Canberra crowd, rattling off seven quick points in just 90 seconds including a three, a mid-range jumper and a pair from close range.
Wildcats forward Ben Henshall added points from the line before Windler was fouled beyond the arc and calmly drained all three free throws to hit double figures midway through the first.
With Elijah Pepper and Dante Russo-Nance also finding range, along with Jaron Rillie splashing a corner three, the Wildcats ran hot offensively putting up 34 first quarter points to lead 34 to 26.
Second Quarter - Okwera and Windler dominate
The Hawks tightened defensively but David Okwera took charge inside, muscling his way to back-to-back three-point plays to hit double digits before halftime.
Windler continued his offensive masterclass, burying a deep triple from the Bunnings logo and tallying 18 points by the break.
With Cam Heufner also connecting from long range, Noa Kouakou-Heugue's big time block and Jesse Wagstaff sparking with rebounds and free throws, Perth went into the main break up 62 to 48.
Third Quarter - Hawks bite back
Illawarra came out firing after halftime, slashing the margin to just five within five minutes. Tyler Harvey’s three cut the lead to two before the Hawks briefly pulled ahead for the first time since the opening minutes.
In a wild back and forth stretch, Windler again steadied the Wildcats, but the Hawks outside shooting kept the scoreboard ticking.
Lead changes piled up late in the quarter before Henshall’s drive restored Perth’s edge, 83 to 82, at the final break.
Final Quarter - Hawks finish strong
Lat Mayen lit a spark for the Wildcats to start the fourth with a corner three and defensive steal, while Illawarra’s shooters stayed red hot from beyond the arc. Noa Kouakou Heugue's huge dunk gave the Red Army faithful something to cheer, but the Hawks kept answering.
Windler added a timely block and Henshall absorbed a hard foul to draw unsportsmanlike free throws, yet Illawarra built an eight point cushion in the closing minutes.
Despite a late basket from Jaron Rillie, the Hawks sealed the contest at the stripe to hit triple figures.
The Wildcats now turn their attention to the Perth Wildcats International Series at Perth HPC. It will be the Red Army's first chance to see Jo Lual-Acuil in action.
Tickets from just $15 for kids and $25 for adults via Ticketmaster here:
Final Score:
Perth Wildcats - 92
Illawarra Hawks - 100
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