Rnd5 DrinkWise Game Preview: Wildcats v Kings NBL26

The Perth Wildcats hit the road to face the Sydney Kings on Sunday afternoon in a crucial clash for both teams, each looking to rebound from Ignite Cup losses.

Perth enters at 3–2, aiming to re-establish its defensive identity, while Sydney sits 2–3 after an inconsistent start to the Hungry Jacks NBL26 season.

Following their 110–93 defeat to the Brisbane Bullets, the Wildcats’ focus this week has been on tightening up defensively and rediscovering the energy that drove their early-season form.

The Wildcats will be bolstered by the return of Sunday Dech, who is set to play his first game of the season after returning from injury.

Head Coach John Rillie confirmed Dech has completed his first full training session and will be eased back into the rotation.

“His experience, his energy, his understanding of the league will be a great addition,” Rillie said. “We’ll be mindful of where he is physically, but he’s an important piece for us.”

Dech’s return strengthens a backcourt that will be tested by Sydney’s speed and shot creation.

The Kings were outplayed in their last outing, falling 86–70 to the Tasmania JackJumpers.

Despite their offensive talent, Sydney struggled to generate rhythm, shooting just 43% from the field and getting to the free-throw line only 12 times.

Star guard Kendric Davis endured a tough night, shooting 4-of-17 for 10 points, while Jaylin Galloway led the way with 13 points.

Reigning league MVP Xavier Cooks added 12 points, eight rebounds, and four assists, and Tim Soares contributed another 12 points and eight boards.

Sydney’s challenge has been consistency. Their previous performance, a convincing win over Adelaide showed how dangerous they can be when their ball movement and spacing click.

Coach Brian Goorjian will look for a sharper start and improved defensive engagement in front of the home crowd.

Head Coach John Rillie said the team has to move forward following recent roster changes and is fully focused on the task ahead.

“Sunday becomes a really important game for us to see who we really are as a group,” Rillie said. “We’ve addressed our lacklustre defensive performance, and we’ll be ready to go.”

“Brisbane scored way too many uncontested shots. Our resistance was minimal. We’ve got to get back to that defensive mindset that set the tone in our first four games.”

The focus will be on respecting Sydney and their offensive firepower, while rediscovering the form that defined those first four games.

“I will highlight the group that we have, I'm very comfortable moving forward with those guys, but we do need to find the right piece (import). But I love this group of guys, and we'll be ready to go on Sunday.”

Both sides come in needing a response. The Wildcats want to prove their system holds strong through early-season adversity, while the Kings will be desperate to steady their campaign and deliver a statement win at home.

Expect tempo, physicality, and plenty of intrigue as two proud clubs look to climb the ladder and keep their NBL26 season alive and well.

Tip-Off: Sunday 19 October, 1:30 PM AWST
Venue: Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney
Watch: Live on ESPN