Gutsy Wildcats fall to United

Details
Perth Wildcats 75 defeated by Melbourne United 84
RAC Arena
Box Score
4 April 2022

Summary
Perth and Melbourne both came into the game after back-to-back losses, despite both teams sitting in the top-four. The Wildcats were without Mitch Norton and Michael Frazier II, while United were missing Caleb Agada. Melbourne took an early lead on the back of a hot-shooting Chris Goulding. The Wildcats fought back in the second quarter, going on a 10-2 to claim the lead by the main break. United once again shot the light out to start the third, but a strong defensive stretch by the home team saw scores tied at the final change. The Wildcats struggled to impact the scoreboard in the final quarter, while Melbourne made some big shots to open up an unassailable lead. 

Reaction
Scott Morrison on his team’s effort
“I was pleased with the effort of the guys, I thought we left it all out there. We were shorthanded, we gave it all we had, which was the first step in getting back on the right track, but unfortunately, we made a lot of mistakes.”

Scott Morrison on Melbourne’s defence
“You’ve got to give the credit, they ramped up their defence in the second half, bogged us down. I think we got caught staring and searching for Bryce a little more often, instead of just attacking. But they forced us into that.”

Player focus
Bryce Cotton top-scored with 18 points, while Todd Blanchfield added 15 and seven rebounds. Luke Travers had 11 plus six rebounds and four assists. 

Key stats and facts
Perth won the rebound count 46-40, but shooting percentage was the key stat, with the Wildcats going at 23% from long range. Melbourne also scored 18 points from turnovers.

Next game
The Perth Wildcats take on New Zealand on Thursday at RAC Arena.