DrinkWise game preview - Round 15: Perth Wildcats v SEM Phoenix

Webster hasn’t played since the Wildcats’ last home game against Tasmania back on December 15 but head coach John Rillie declared he was ready to play the minutes required.

“He’s been participating in practice now for the last couple of weeks. We’re obviously managing what he does and this week he has taken it to another level,” Rillie said.

“He’s in the type of shape where he’ll be able to play the minutes required. Yesterday when we scrimmaged and he participated, it brought a nice little breath of fresh air to the group he was playing with.

“As one of the players commented, Corey Webster was doing Corey Webster things.”

Hot NBA draft prospect Alex Sarr will remain sidelined with a hip injury sustained in the road win over Adelaide on December 28 but is progressing well.

“It’s more likely for next week (against Brisbane at RAC Arena on January 19),” Rillie said.

“He’s made good progress this week but I’d say more next week would be the likely scenario for him.

“Everyone involved is very mindful of the future that he has in front of him. There has to be a comfort level for all parties.”

On the back of the success of last year’s open-air clash, Saturday is close to being a sell out in what’s expected to be the Wildcats’ biggest home crowd of NBL24.

Second-placed Perth will be aiming for a fourth win in a row after winning three games out of four in their tough road stint.

But forward Hyrum Harris knows there’s no time for complacency.

“We’re in a good spot but we’re trying not to be too complacent. We’ve won three out of our last four, but Phoenix are looking to fight for their spot in the play-offs, and those are dangerous teams to play,” Harris said.

Game details

Who: Perth Wildcats vs SEM Phoenix

When: 5pm WST Saturday 13 January

Where: RAC Arena

Watch: Live on ESPN via Kayo or Foxtel

Opposition watch

SEM Phoenix have imports Alan Williams and Abdel Nadar cleared to play following their respective injuries, but Gary Browne remains sidelined.

Led by captain Mitch Creek, SEM are known for their rebounding prowess which is something Harris is cautious of.

“They’re going to be a dangerous team regardless of where they are on the table. One thing they do really well and something we need to work on is our rebounding, so it’s a great challenge for us,” he said.

“We’re focusing on us and what we can control.”

The Phoenix are currently seventh on the ladder with a 9-11 record after losing their last two games, including a franchise-record loss of 116-78 against Illawarra last week.

Last time they met

The Wildcats and Phoenix haven’t met since the opening round of the season at John Cain Arena, when the home side prevailed 110-99.

Young gun Ben Henshall dropped a game-high 24 points for Perth in what was a silver lining in an otherwise disappointing loss, while Bryce Cotton had 10 assists.

Tyler Cook (23 points and 10 rebounds) finished with a double-double for the Phoenix, while Creek also hit 23 points.