Wildcats Multicultural Stories | Marley Sam

The Perth Wildcats’ Multicultural Game returns to RAC Arena this Friday, 23 October, when Perth hosts Melbourne United for a night celebrating heritage, identity and community.

Ahead of the game, Marley Sam joins his dad Nak, mum Jessie and younger sister to share their Cambodian and Italian backgrounds, family traditions and the experience of seeing Marley become a Wildcat.

The family discuss Buddhism and ceremonies honouring relatives who have passed away, with food offerings to monks and prayers for the family.

Marley remembers attending regularly in his even younger days, before basketball and other commitments began taking up more of his time.

Now, his basketball journey is bringing the family together in a different way.

Nak said watching his son reach the NBL has been a proud experience. Marley’s grandmother, who is nearly 80 and had never followed sport, now watches his games from down south.

It wasn’t long ago that Marley was watching from the stands himself, telling his family he would one day play on the Wildcats’ court.

Jessie reflects on the promise that has since become a reality. Watching her son play has been only part of the experience. Hearing the Red Army get behind him has been just as memorable.

“I couldn’t believe the crowd and the support that he has,” Jessie said.

“That blew my mind. That was emotional.” Marley felt that support, too. “You can’t not feel it,” he said. “It was very loud, and you can definitely feel it.”

Food is central to family life, bringing everyone together and keeping them connected to their heritage.

“It’s how we bring the family together. It’s always over food,” Jessie said.

One Cambodian favourite, a fermented fish dish, sparks some laughter. While Nak praises its flavour, Marley admits he has yet to try it.

“The smell will kill you, but the taste will put you up in the heavens,” Nak said.

“I’ve had other stuff, but I’ve never had that because I can’t go past the smell,” Marley added.

Watch the full video above to meet Marley and his family ahead of Friday’s Multicultural Game against Melbourne United.

The Red Army can celebrate the occasion with their own Multicultural tee from the CatsGear store, featuring colourful illustrations of cultural icons from around the world.