DrinkWise Preview: Round 17 – Perth Wildcats vs Tasmania JackJumpers

Game Details

Who: Perth Wildcats vs Tasmania JackJumpers

When: 11:00am WST Sunday 29 January

Where: MyState Bank Arena  

Watch: Live on ESPN via Kayo or Foxtel 

Context

The Perth Wildcats come into this game following a big 106-86 win over Illawarra Hawks on Friday night. At this stage of the season, all games are must-win games for the Cats to ensure a spot in the playoffs, and they will be looking to ride the momentum of Friday’s game into this one on Sunday morning in Tasmania. The JackJumpers will also be fighting for the spot in the playoffs and coming off a 77-91 loss to Sydney Kings on Friday, they will be looking to bounce back in a big way in front of their home crowd.

Pre-game words

Head coach John Rillie shares his thoughts ahead of the clash with Tasmania.

“Our guys understand what this game means to us and our season,” he said.

“Quite frankly, we’ve been very bad against the JackJumpers so if we don’t come with a great pride and zest for this game, it’s going to be really hard the rest of the way.

“It is a monster game, talking about our second half effort, if we don’t bring that from the get-go, it is going to be a long afternoon, but this game means a lot to Perth Wildcats and where we finish this season.”

Roster Availability

Tai Webster (hamstring) will not be suiting up to face Tasmania.

Michael Harris comes into the 11-man lineup.

Opponents to watch out for

Jack McVeigh will be one to keep an eye on, he has the ability to get hot on offense at any time and the Wildcats will want to keep him under control.

Last time they met

The Perth Wildcats last met Tasmania JackJumpers in Round 6, falling 77-85 at RAC Arena. Bryce Cotton managed a game-high 26 points for the Wildcats, while Jack McVeigh top-scored for Tasmania with 22 points.