Wildcats ready for historic return to Tasmania

The Perth Wildcats have arrived in Launceston ahead of the first NBL played game in Tasmania since 2005.

 It will be the Wildcats first game in Tassie since it defeated the Devils back in August 1996.

The Wildcats best in that game was Todd Lichti with 22 points and seven rebounds, while Anthony Stewart - a Tasmianan himself - added 18 on three made triples.

Todd Blanchfield said it’s exciting to be a part of Tasmania's return to the NBL.

“It’s really cool, obviously the temperature is a little bit different to what we’re used to, but it’s a lot of fun, especially with a team set to be playing here from next year onwards. It’s great to see what Tasmania has to offer from the basketball side of things,” he said.

Launceston has a special place in the Wildcats heart, with its first ever road win happening their back in 1982.

It was Perth’s maiden road trip, defeating the home side and reigning NBL Champions 92-84.

On Tuesday, the Wildcats will look to begin a new winning-streak after falling to the 36ers on Saturday.

“The game tomorrow is going to be tough and it’s going to be entertaining,” said Blanchfield.

“We’ve watched video this morning and know what adjustments we need to make.

"New Zealand are on the front foot right now, they’re playing really good basketball. It’s going to be a physical, tough game tomorrow night but we’ve had a good practice this morning and we’ll be ready.

“They have a lot of guys who are trying to prove themselves, so they’re going to come out super aggressive, and they have Corey Webster now, and he’s really starting to find his feet again.”

The last time Perth and New Zealand  met was at the NBL Cup, with the Wildcats winning 85-75.

Tip-off on Tuesday is at 5.30pm on ESPN and SBS On Demand.