Wagstaff puts Brisbane win first as game 550 approaches

Perth Wildcats captain Jesse Wagstaff says a win over Brisbane is his priority as he prepares for his 550th NBL appearance in Wednesday evening’s Ignite Cup clash.

Speaking at Perth Airport this morning before the team departed for Brisbane, Wagstaff acknowledged the significance of his latest milestone while keeping his attention firmly on the Bullets.

Asked about keeping the occasion low key, Wagstaff said the importance of the game had shaped his approach.

“To us it’s a really important game against Brisbane,” Wagstaff said.

“In the context of the season, where we’re at as a group, I think it’s a really important game.

“It wasn’t even discussed or thought about really, to be honest.”

The six-time champion said there would be time to appreciate his career achievements once his playing days were over.

For now, the opportunity to secure another win in a tightly contested competition carries greater weight.

“It is pretty crazy and again it’s something that you’ll probably look back on when I’m done,” he said.

“The season is so close and we talk about it every year with the NBL, it’s so hard to win and the gap from top to bottom is so tight, particularly this year.

“One game can be a significant difference maker or separator and this game is no different.”

Wagstaff sees Wednesday as an opportunity for Perth to take another step forward as the group builds consistency.

“You don’t get games back at the end of the year. Every game is super important,” he said.

“We’re still kind of finding our feet, as are Brisbane, as are most teams this year.”

A stronger rebounding performance is a clear priority, with Wagstaff identifying the work required to improve Perth’s possession count.

“Rebounding is a significant part of that,” he said.

“A lot of it comes down to desire, a lot of it comes down to technique, but at the end of the day you’ve just got to want it.

“So hopefully we can fix that quick smart.”

Wagstaff has taken on additional court time early in the season, pointing to Jo Lual-Acuil Jr.’s injury as a factor in his increased role.

His off-season preparation, including 3x3 basketball, has helped keep him ready to answer that call.

“Just staying in shape and doing something other than playing basketball consistently, I think is good physically and it’s good mentally,” he said.

“That 3x3 experience I think helps as well.”

His longstanding influence within the Wildcats organisation was reflected recently, with teammate Dylan Windler describing Wagstaff as the best teammate he has played with at any level.

The skipper appreciated the compliment and quickly returned the praise.

“Windler’s been awesome this year and he’s been awesome since he’s been here,” Wagstaff said.

“He’s a phenomenal teammate himself with incredible NBA experience, so I’ll take the compliment.”

Asked whether 600 appearances could be within reach, Wagstaff stayed true to the approach that has carried him through recent seasons.

“I think the last five, six seasons, to be honest, I’ve taken it a season at a time and this season is no different,” he said.

“There’s a lot of water to go under the bridge this season.”