Rnd13 DrinkWise Game Preview: Wildcats vs JackJumpers NBL26

The Perth Wildcats head to Tasmania on Sunday afternoon as they begin a five-game road stretch against the Tasmania JackJumpers at MyState Bank Arena.

Perth arrive in Hobart following a narrow one-point loss to South East Melbourne Phoenix at RAC Arena, a contest that provided plenty of encouragement despite the result. The Wildcats controlled long stretches of the game, led for the majority of the night and while the closing moments didn't fall their way, the performance reinforced the group’s ability to compete with top-four opposition.

The Wildcats have been particularly effective this season away from home and their best will be needed as they face a physical and disciplined JackJumpers side.

Tasmania enter the matchup with renewed confidence after collecting consecutive road wins, steadying their season heading into their own run of demanding fixtures. The JackJumpers remain one of the competition’s toughest defensive units and will look to impose their style early on their home floor.

For the Wildcats, the focus remains firmly on process. Head coach John Rillie has consistently reinforced the importance of performance and consistency, trusting that results will follow when the group plays to its identity. 

The last time these two sides met, the Wildcats produced a composed and resilient performance at RAC Arena to secure a 101–95 win over the JackJumpers. In that contest, Perth matched Tasmania’s physicality and competitiveness, managing the closing stages in front of a packed home crowd.

With ladder positions tightly contested, it's a chance for the Wildcats to begin a demanding stretch with confidence as they lean into their strong road form.

PERTH WILDCATS vs TASMANIA JACKJUMPERS
Venue: MyState Bank Arena
Date: Sunday, 21 December
Time: 11:30am AWST
Watch: Live on ESPN