Ten Games to Go: Wildcats Focus on Building for the Run Home

The Perth Wildcats are keeping their focus firmly on what lies ahead, using another composed road performance as a platform rather than a destination as the season moves toward its decisive stretch.

While the Wildcats did all that was required to secure the result against the Breakers in New Zealand and continue to stay within reach of the top four on the NBL Ladder, head coach John Rillie expressed in the post game press conference that the priority remains how the group is building, not where it currently sits.

“For us it’s about how we’re playing, not the ladder,” Rillie said. “If we play at the level we’re looking for with consistency, that takes care of itself.”

Rillie pointed to moments within games as the true markers of progress, particularly the team’s ability to respond when momentum swings.

“We’ve shown we can build leads, but the next step is maintaining that standard,” he said. “Those moments are what we’re continuing to address, because if we clean them up, we end up where we want to be.”

The Wildcats’ recent stretch has again highlighted the importance of adaptability, with players stepping into expanded roles and embracing responsibility as the group continues to navigate availability.

“We’ve put ourselves through enough of these situations now that we’re learning and growing from them,” Rillie said. “That growth builds confidence in our personnel and in how we handle winning moments.”

That composure late in games has been a key area of focus, and one Rillie believes is beginning to translate consistently.

“Our temperament in those moments has improved,” he said. “We’re defending with purpose, staying patient offensively, and trusting each other. That’s a big part of evolving as a team.”

Jo Lual-Acuil Jr. echoed that sentiment alongside Rillie post game, reinforcing that the group’s mindset is about setting long-term standards rather than individual performances or short-term results.

“We’re just trying to win and keep getting better,” Lual-Acuil Jr. said. “We’re not focused on who’s out or who’s in. It’s next man up and everyone’s ready to step in and do their job.”

For Lual-Acuil, the recent run has been a sign of growth, particularly in how the Wildcats are finishing games.

“It shows character,” he said. “We’ve had moments this season where closing games has been a challenge, but we’re taking the right steps and moving in the right direction.”

As the Wildcats continue their push through the back end of the schedule, Rillie believes the foundation being built now will define the team when it matters most.

“Our goal is to be playing our best basketball at the right time of the season.”