Curious to Perf supporter opinions on Manek and Thomas - if you had to choose one to keep, who and why?

With a legit big a glaring need, both def won't be sticking around (if any?).

Excellent interview by both. 100% right on Perth being very fortunate to have the best local talent. It started with Bevo bringing those players in years ago and just topping up, the loss of damo a few seasons ago was basically then end of the supply.
Four's and five’s are wanted all over the world, even more the long athletic ones. It’s going to be interesting, with Blanchfield, it looks if he’s staying but reading between the lines he’s probably not going to play much, so he might look for an out, it’s his wage that’s probably keeping him at Perth.

Re Thomas and Manek, you could keep one but not both, do they want top dollar. Kay on everyone lips, 31 before season starts and on real big dollars, I really don’t see him back. Not certain any of the four, five will return from Japan or Europe.

Would prefer Hoag over Manek, same explosive shooting but much better all round game. Unless Manek is on peanuts the cats need to improve a lot more to get above 5th / 6th place.

Thomas plays short, they talked about his wingspan but you could count the games on 1 hand where he registered a block. He didnt shut down any opponents on a regular basis as a starting centre.

If cats are looking to fix defensive and rebounding issues it starts with the first 5, the bench can help but if your first five are leaking points its the same cats as the last two seasons. For example if we had Law this season instead of Manek , I think we could of finished top 4.

So I am hoping a lot of the press conference responses were professional courtesy for players like Blanchfield, Manek and Thomas and in the real behind the scenes there is more of a ruthless assessment of what is needed.

Manek and Thomas dont defend, need to go.

Perth seriously need to get younger and more athletic this offseason especially on the defensive end. Guys Bul koi, Angus Glover or Owen foxwell and a rebounders like Pineau or Mason Peatling to get some grunt on the boards. Perths bench has got to get more athletic and younger to supplement their older guys like Webster, Cotton and co....

Looks like they want

Import-Webster-pg(dp)
Cotton-Webster
Travers-Blanchfield-Ducas
Kay-Wagstaff-Bowen(dp)
Import-HayesBrown-Andrew(dp)

Import athletic 1 who can defend, score and facilitate
Import athletic 5 who can defend and alter shots
Won't be cheap.


Drop
Norton - only keeping if funds arent available for import.
Zunic
Harris(dp)
Manek(I)
Thomas(I)
Majok

gotta think Manek straight out of College wasn't expensive.
He has the edge over Thomas for me as he spaces the floor, so you can play next to a true big.

From what I have read OHB is leaving the Cats, his parents posted on social media saying they have enjoyed being part of the Red Army the past 2 seasons and also commenting OHB wants to go somewhere he can see court time.

Manek or Thomas - you send both packing... neither fit our team and we need to get more out of our 2 imports.

Bit of a head scratcher why OHB saw next to no court time given cats lacked anyone with consistent rebounding ability. Showed a real willingness to prioritise rebounding when everyone else was ignoring boards in the few minutes he did play, was he just useless at training and coach had no faith in him?

OHB looks a bit slow, probably a tad undersized and not as athletic as you want from a 5 man in the league today. Especially with the amount of very athletic 4s and 5s we see today. In many ways similar to Majok.

Good on him if he cant find the opportunity elsewhere, I think in this club you have to show on-court poise very quickly to get the minutes - bit like Harris who on a number of occasions was oozing promise. its why Harris was ahead of Zunic and Blanchfield. Gotta make most of your opportunities.

OHB could use a bit more muscle, go down the Scott Fisher approach and get some biceps and upper body strength to counter some of his downsides.

OHB is as much of a Defensive liability as Majok. I'm sure both are nice characters but are unlikely to significantly impact a line up for Perth. I see the Wildcats as being correct in moving on.

Brisbane's Gorjok Gak has signed for Willeton Tiger's in NBL1 West so is likely a name to watch for the Red Army.

Nick Kay's wife is pregnant with their first child...read in to that what you will, does it make any change it makes to the chances of Nick considering an Australia homecoming? Kay does still own a property in Duncraig, WA. Perth can't pay like for like if comparing to Japanese monetary figures, but they do have room to make sure he has a decent income in his home country. Will be interesting.

WA's Alex Ducas and Kyle Bowen are also names to continue watching as they come to the end of their time at St. Mary's.

Cats should trade Blanchfield to kings for Hunter.

Dont think they do trades in the NBL...

If both clubs were happy, you think it would be a winner.

Blanchfield bit of deadwood on this team - better scorers than him and his defence is nothing to talk about. I am hoping he asks to be released.

If he wants to prolong his career past his current contract probably needs play time on a team that gives him some reasonable minutes

James Ennis is currently in Russia, Obviously he wouldn't be too cheap but who wants to be in Russia right now. Direct swap for Manek and chase that import big.

Weedy Slug - there's no way I'd release Harris, a true shooter when he gets court time. If I could choose between Norton and Zunic, I'd give Zunic the gig.

Mills confirmed they have been in " contact" with Kay's representatives. This is a sign both parties have interest. Kay would be an amazing get a guy like him in his prime would single handedly change perths fortunes

I'm certain not only Perth would be talking to Kay. Perths advantage is his partner from there.

Dunkman

"Cats should trade Blanchfield to kings for Hunter."


Only the Nets would be that stupid.

Lol, I didn't say it was smart, good for cats though. Hunter so underused at kings.

Agree. I would like to see Hunter in a team where he is much more of a focal point. Also one where he needs to somewhat conserve his fouls.

We won't know his ceiling until that occurs but the potential is definitely there from what he has shown so far.

I know that 'Buford' sounds a bit like ‘stupid’, but the guy isn’t. Why on earth would he take on Perth’s dead wood?

Blanchfield is still a legit scorer, just on a bit of confidence dip and limited opportunity to turn it around.

There would still be teams with maybe very young rosters where a veteran like Blanchfield could still contribute and re-find his form and be a mentor off-court.

Dont forget the last minute shot against Melbourne, Blanchfield still has some tools to trade but like a lot of things its all about the other team mates around you, the coach and his preferred style.

In Gleesons style Blanchfield was a top contributor, just needs to find the right program that suits his game style.

Blanchfield is a legit score at best 2-3 times a season. I'd hope there is no way in hell we would look to bring him to Sydney after his previous stop over, especially for Jordy.

Blanchfield's a system player, the run n gun doesn’t seem to work for him...

Blanchfield is a Flex System player.

The single most impactful change the Wildcats can make is to bring back Gleeson, however impossible that is. Perth may have been the top offensive team in the league but their defence was just God awful. To be at the top of the offence then have a net rating of +0.1 is not going to win much.

Gleeson instantly makes the players better. Even players like Blanchfield will improve under his coaching.

As for needing a stud big, the Wildcats have always won with average to decent centres without needing superstars in the position.

The last few starting centres on Championship teams have been Knight, Jervis, Jawaii, McKay and Plumlee. All decent but not top tier big men. Their success has always come from the guards or small forwards. Beal, Ennis, Prather, Martin, and Cotton.

The single most impactful change the Wildcats could make IMO is NOT changing the coach. Swapping out a coach every season is a sure-fire way to make sure you don't build any cohesion.

Spot on!

Obviously if they can get Gleeson they should

But barring that, keep Rillie.

Coaches usually deserve 2 or 3 years before a fair and detailed assessment can be made.

Perhaps some it's blatantly obvious they aren't up to it after a year or two, or less, but in most cases it's better to give them 2 or 3 years to develop their craft, stamp their brand onto their team and see what happens.

Pinder and Nick Kay should be off-season priority

From ESPN
Link

What went right

Simply put, the Wildcats were an unbelievably effective offensive team.

John Rillie had his team operating as the best halfcourt offence in the NBL -- 1.044 ppp, which was No. 1 league-wide -- shooting a ton of threes and making them at a good rate, while also leading the league in assist percentage.

It was largely led by another MVP-level season from Bryce Cotton, who averaged 23.4 points and 4.9 assists per game. As has been the case since he arrived in Perth, the offence went through Cotton -- impacting his team with the ball in his hands, as well as through his gravity -- so the Wildcats had a lot of success on that end.

Corey Webster was the other obvious offensive bright spot, averaging 14.2 points per game, while shooting an efficient 39.4 percent from downtown, on 4.6 attempts. Luke Travers' production wasn't at the level most thought it'd be, but he still showed some impressive flashes; most notably, shooting above 40 percent from behind the three-point line over the course of the regular season.

The Wildcats' two imports -- Brady Manek and TasShawn Thomas -- had some decent moments throughout the season, but consistency from game to game was a clear issue. Michael Harris, a development player, also showed some nice flashes, earning minutes as the season progressed.

What went wrong

But, simply put, the Wildcats were an unbelievably ineffective defensive team.

They were the worst halfcourt defence in the league -- 1.027 ppp -- and their deficiencies on that end came down to a mixture of personnel and effort. The personnel part was just about the team not having effective one-on-one defenders, so there was constantly pressure on the rim, where there was just no interior presence. The effort element comes down to their inability to rebound the ball; the Wildcats finished the season as the worst defensive rebounding team in the league -- 69.9 percent defensive rebound percentage -- which was a major factor in the team not being able to find an identity on that end of the floor.

Things got even tougher for Rillie when he didn't get the output from a number of players he would've banked on getting production from. Todd Blanchfield had his most unproductive and inefficient seasons in more than a decade -- averaging just 4.4 points per game, on 31.1 percent shooting from downtown -- which forced Rillie to bench the veteran. The same can be said for Mitch Norton, and that led to the same outcome for him. Getting such diminished output from two key locals -- who take up a significant portion of the team's salary -- really hampered the ceiling of these Wildcats.

The inconsistent production, from game to game, by Manek and Thomas also didn't help a Wildcats team already looking for guys to step up, while the late addition of Tai Webster barely moved the needle.

The Wildcats have a desire to re-sign Travers; he has interest from across the NBL so locking him in is a priority. The team's GM of Basketball, Danny Mills, then has to figure out the best way to proceed with the remaining two years on Blanchfield's deal; there's a sense both sides would be open to a buy-out, but executing that would be difficult. Both Websters have mutual options for the 2023-24 season, and the outcome of that will likely dictate what the Wildcats look like next season.

Outside of the pieces who would work well around Cotton, the team needs to focus on youth and demonstrated defensive capacity with regard to how it recruits its ancillary local talent this off-season.

More of a casual fan now. I didn't even know their offence was top ranked. Given that...

Could it work if they swapped out Blanchfield for a better defender, upgraded defensive contributions from imports (change some imports) and hired a defensive specialist (assistant) coach to work on that end, with Rillie still head coach for a second season???

Or would it be too much like coaching by committee???

Has there been an assistant coaching change ?.

Now that the Phoenix job is available? Interesting timing if so

Which assistant left though ?.

Luke Brennan

Thanks, thought maybe Kelly going for SEM job.

Travers & C.Webster re-signings all but official according to Lachy this evening

David Okwera recently spotted back in town.
Permanent or just visiting?

Travers departs

Tweet

Thank you, LT.

Luke Travers has informed the club of his desire to explore his options as a free agent.

We'd like to thank Luke for what he has brought to the Wildcats during his time at the club and wish him all the best for his future career.

Not a great start for the cats, if they do not land a 1-2 top tier aussies the fans wont be happy.

I think this is also reflective of the big Bryce Cotton contract which is not marquee.

@ Ballman, exactly, it's a shame because Cotton should have been naturalised by now.

Surely it's time for the nbl to have a rule that if you have played for one club continuously for four seasons as an import your salary can be as a marquee, must be at same club though. No one wants to see players of Cotton quality leave the league, got dangle a carrot.

Alex Ducas, Kyle Bowen and Brandt are serious possibilities . Corey is is also staying but Tai will not be back

Brandt is up there with wagstaff in age, great off the bench maybe but not a great move for the future.

Brandt will be a backup. Also Travers is going to decide between the Jack jumpers or United offers after the summer league.

Makes me wonder if Rillie's style is alienating the players a bit. Roth seems to have them keen to play for him.

SEG's mismanagement of the franchise would be off-putting more than anything.

Hearing now Tai will stay with Perth on a new 2 year guaranteed deal

We all hoped wildcats offseason would start with a bang. Just got the wrong sort of bang - coach and NBA draft talent out the door.

What are Perth looking like?

Something like?

Import and/or Brandt/Gak
Johnson and/or Wagstaff/Bowen/Okwera
Import/Ducas
Cotton/C Webster
T Webster/

Is Wagstaff playing again? Did I miss anyone?

If they get the imports right

A wing like a peak Casey Prather

A big like Pardon or Lee

Im hoping Wagstaff retires, if we still have Wagstaff the recruiting has been poor.

He's a club legend and been a great loyal servant but after two subpar seasons it is time to get players for the future.

Wagstaff 36 Brandt 33

Wagstaff still being around is a sick joke.

If what somebody said in the other thread is correct about it apparently being Wagstaff's decision whether to retire or not from the club's perspective then wow just wow.

May as well bring Greg Hire back.

You could do worse than Wagstaff as a minimum-wage 11th man, to be fair. Continuity and culture are important and they've lost enough of that as it is.

Wagstaff and Norton were both in attendance representing the club at last night's preview screening of Air.

Wagstaff was still a solid contributor last season.

Rillie like Bev and Gleeson absolutely loves Wagstaff . Also with Traveds gone Blanchfield is now back in the picture to get Luke's minutes next season.

Hey @Perthworld are we able to grab a coffee/beer so I have the pleasure of meeting you. Thanks in advance.

Also @koberulz... if guys are still under contract they are obligated to attend functions as part of the Perth Wildcats. In saying that, pretty sure they just wanted to see a movie.

P.S Danny's phone must've been hot for him to be on the phone in a Premier.

The Perth Wildcats have continued to bolster their frontcourt stocks heading into NBL24, signing out of contract Melbourne United forward David Okwera to a three-year deal.

The Perth Wildcats are delighted to announce the signing of exciting young power forward David Okwera on a three-year deal.
The 20-year-old is known for his length and athleticism, protecting the rim, defending at a high level, and can also get it done on the offensive end of the floor.
Originally from Western Australia, Okwera moved to Melbourne as a teenager, signing with Melbourne United as a development player at 18 years of age.
He was selected for the NBA Global Academy, receiving close to 20 NCAA D1 offers, but opted to turn professional and play in the NBL over taking the collegiate path.
The 6-foot-10 big man has represented Australia on several occasions, including the U19 FIBA World Cup and was a member of Australia's Gold Medal winning FIBA Asia Cup team in 2022.
Okwera said he’s excited to be returning to the West and be with his family.
"It feels amazing to get the opportunity to play in front of my family and be around them, I’m really looking forward to it," he said.
“JR (John Rillie) and the rest of the coaching staff are really invested in me developing into the player I want to be, and hopefully I can bring some excitement to the fans.”

@Lachy_Reid

Hearing the @PerthWildcats will sign the club's first Next Star ..Alex Sarr (17y/o) from France..watch this space.

Finally.

The next star looks good he's a monster

B!tch he's a monster
no-good bloodsucker
tall motherf*cker
now look who's in trouble
as you run into the jungle
all you hear is rumbles

Norton & Blanchfield gone. Respect to them

The Perth Wildcats have agreed to part ways with veteran duo Mitch Norton and Todd Blanchfield.
While the pair remained under contract, the club believes this decision is in the best interests of all parties moving forward.
...
Perth Wildcats General Manager of Basketball Operations Danny Mills issued the following statement.
"In what were two difficult decisions to make because of the quality of people and players both Mitch and Todd are, we believe this is the right decision for the club and in the best interests of the organisation's long-term plans," he said.
“We thank both Mitch and Todd for their outstanding contribution to the Wildcats, both on and off the court and wish them nothing but the best for the next stage of their careers.”

Correction: Article Link

Does the money they are owed still form part of salary cap ? If they get contracts elsewhere, which is less than their present contract, do cats pay the difference?.

Wildcats have signed Ben Henshall for two years.

Phoenix in the box seat for Blanchfield. Norton Bullets

Red army going nuts on socials but I think this is the right move by Rillie. The league is getting faster and more athletic and unfortunately these 2 are past their prime.
This is the first time in 3 seasons the squad is being built with a coach already in place so it seems like they at least have a plan this time. (And decrease the influence of Mills recruitment strategies)

Rillie has had a great offseason. Ducas going back to college was a blow but signing young guns Henshall and Okwera to go with Pinder is a huge boost for a team that was old and slow.

The amounts wouldn't count under the cap.

Probably depends on details, but Perth might've paid them out. Or Perth could be on the hook for their contracted amount less whatever they get paid by a new club.

They signed Benny Henshall today- great signing- kid has skills and should dev nicely!

is Alex Sarr signing legit? great pickup if its true!

Yes. He is a young French superstar and future nba player in waiting

Might want to pump the brakes on what Sarr could produce. He's not even old enough to buy a beer at the moment.

He will end up being really good. He is a lanky young man but he will put on weight and with his skill set he can be atleast a very good big

Not being heavy might help in the cast NBL league

Tai Webster and Corey Webster have both signed new two-year deals to return to the Perth Wildcats, sources told ESPN.
The respective contracts of both Webster brothers are structured in the same way, sources said, with a team option on the second year of each deal.

Excellent!

Great news. Tai showed some real glimpses of elite playmaking and ability to get to the basket. With a full preseason under his belt I can see him being one of the elite local guards in the season. Probably just needs some coaching for his 3 point shot to be the all round package.

Hopefully able to let his brother come of the bench as a vet. Loved what Corey did last year but at 35+ you want to look after him for the season.

Tai
Cotton
Import
Pinder
Import


It'll be interesting what kind of import they go after for SF and PF/C spot

Strap yourselves in for the "all-black starting five" comments throughout the upcoming season.

While I believe Pinder is much more suited to the five spot, like sixers, add Markus Lee to that line up and it's looking much better, need a defensive player in there though.

Strap yourselves in for the "all-black starting five" comments throughout the upcoming season.

Pinder at the 5, Sam Whitelock at the 4

The Wildcats only intend to have two imports, but are going to "scour the local market for another high-end marquee-type", according to this article.

Nick Kay? We can dream

So you have Kay, Delaney, Mathiang, Moller available at the 4/5 spots, who have I missed, other wise it's a small field.

Kay.......several light years.......the other 3. That is a really shallow pool of local "marquee" availability innit!

Duop Reath?

that was my guess reath

that was my guess reath

Would Reath play well with Pinder, that's the question, you need balance, cats need a defensive rebounding player.

Reath would certainly stretch the floor for Pinder offensively, which is a must. He's a solid rebounder. I think the two of them would be a good fit.

Motum and Kay two names to look out for

Makes sense to get a marquee Aussie if over the cap instead of import - not all of salary counts against cap and stops from signing with another team.

Thon Maker. He grew up in Perth.
Played with Keanu recently in the WC qualifiers.
Surely he suits JRs run and gun style.
Sign him up for 3 years! That Thon Thon Thon Thon Thon

Thin maker is probably out of the Cats price range . If they can get him it'll be a major get

Thon

Rhys Vague to SEM for 2 years

Cats sign Hyrum Harris for 2 seasons.

The Perth Wildcats are pleased to announce the signing of exciting New Zealand forward Hyrum Harris on a two-year deal.
Having debuted in the NBL with the Illawarra Hawks in 2019, Harris joins the Wildcats after playing the last two NBL seasons with Adelaide 36ers and was named the 36ers' Most Improved Player for the 2021/22 season.

Wildcats sign Hyrum Harris on a 2 yr deal

Went from 36ers most improved player in 2021-2022 to averaging 3.2ppg, 0.9apg, 2.6rpg last season. I am underwhelmed but everyone deserves a chance to prove themselves I guess

Defensive role player which is something cats haven't really had off the bench in while. (Hire was the last ?)

Not going to be a star or play heavy minutes I suspect , but clubs need role players off the bench to compliment your stars and scorers.

Yes I agree Ballman. A defensive role player in limited minutes.
Any thoughts on our next marquee sighning?
I have a feeling it may be Yanni Wetzell or Nick Kay.

True we do desperately need defensive role players. I look forward to him becoming Wildcats most improved player then hopefully.

The Harris signing to me indicates Wagstaff won't be back

Roster so far
Tai Webster, Kyle Zunic, Corey Webster, Bryce Cotton, Michael Harris (Development), Ben Henshall, Hyrum Harris, David Okwera, Jack Andrew (Development), Keanu Pinder, Alex Sarr? (Next Star)
Webster/Webster/Zunic
Cotton/Henshall/Harris
/
/Harris/Andrew
Pinder/Okwera/Sarr

Looking at a marquee Aussie, import and another role player local.

I think doup or thon maker should be available and in our budget

If we were gunning for WmW, I don't think that should be a worry

None of the recent signings should have cost and arm or a leg

Harris isn't a big stats type of player. He will give you effort and hustle, a bit like Greg Hire.

I have a feeling it may be Yanni Wetzell or Nick Kay.

If it's Wetzel which i seriously doubt, Pinder will have to only play four spot, not ideal.

What other options are there for marquee bigs outside of:
1. Nick Kay
2. Yanni Wetzell
3. Duop Reath
4. Thon Maker

PERTH WILDCATS

PG: Webster - Zunic - PG-dp
SG: Cotton* - Webster - Henshall

SF: Import* - Local SF - Harris-dp

PF: Import* or Local PF - Okwera - Harris

C: Pinder - Sarr-ns - Andrew-dp


Pinder possibly playing pf with import or local c

Zunic also no guarantee , could be Armstrong.

Nick Kay will look great in a cat's uniform next to Pinder next season.

How will he look in blue next to Norto? ;-)

Pinder played the 4 in cairns.. Sam wanneverg played 5.. A stretch 5 at that

Pinder is better suited for the 4

Um no, Pinder was exclusively used as the five when fit, as was even mentioned by coach forde in an interview. Hogg played the four spot.

Their regular starting line-up was Pinder-Waardenburg-Hogg in the frontcourt, but it got thrown around quite a bit because of injuries.

Pinder is obviously a 4-5 in the NBL, can play either, the key is having someone who can stretch the floor in the other big man spot so it opens up his driving lanes.

If they're after a stretch big, would they consider bringing back Manek if they can’t get a nick kay type local

If they are serious about rebounding and defence you do not want Manek in your first 5. As homicide said "he plays 0 defence". Teams will just go straight at him. he is a bit too slow and immobile for the NBL.

Someone more like a DJ Hoag is what they need who can shoot but also rebound, penetrate and play defence.

Kuol started in the three most games, Forde clearly stated that Pinder was a five and it helped him by not having to switch between the four and five spots that he did at Sixers. Waardenburg came off the bench early till injuries started hitting taipans.

Dunkman your wrong

As mentioned above by Mouse.. They were interchangeable but he wasnt the C by default

Sam was a bigger x longer body, and softened took the oppositions tallest player

Either way, I they need another big

Bowen was a big miss.. I makes you wonder

Travers,Blanchfield, Norton, bowen, WmW

Are players concerned about rillie as a HC and what he brings.. And also if the way players like Travers, blanchfield, I Norton didn't nesczrrily flourish under him. A concern to other guys around the league

Sam was startin while. Pinder was in.. I watched whole season.. Wtf r u talkin about

I watched taipans all year.. Cept for first few games.. Sam was permanent in 5 for a good part of the szn

Pinder liked my tweet.. Sayin we should go for Hogg as a import

They share same agent.. I would be a good fit

I watched every game,not just Cairns, I won't argue with you but I still believe I’m correct. Each to their own assessments.

"Kuol started in the three most games"

Their starting line-up to begin the season was Pinder-Waardenburg-Hogg-Kuol-McCall. Bul was the two-guard.

Then Tahj got injured and Scott came in at PG, then injuries to Waardenburg and Pinder shuffled everyone up and that's when Kuol started at SF. By late in the regular season it was Waardenburg-Hogg-Kuol-McCall-Scott.

Wagstaff to JJs rumour - is this just some sort of negotiation ploy?

Hogg sounds great if possible.

Wagstaff to JJ's and Hogg to Cats both sound delightful

Wagstaff to JJs rumour - is this just some sort of negotiation ploy?

Steindl x Roth lookin out fo jesse

I doubt he wants to relocate to tassie, I with his family well rooted in perth

Bring him. On as coaching staff if nothin else

Hogg to Perth? Makes sense he fits what the cat need at SF. Then get Kay ..

Webster
Cotton
Hogg
Pinder
Kay

Thats a potent 5 right there can you imagine

A very expensive one, the cap is gone in those five players.

Has Kay not resigned in Japan already

If not they'd b Krazy not to throw the bag at him and he after they missed out on WMW

He would be coming back to a very different team to the 1 he left tho

Sydney haven't done anything, Kay would be high on the list, cats already spent a lot coin, kings still got Cooks money left over.

Kings have been very quiet, I but I bet everyone beatinndown there door

Maybe they waitin to see what Bronny wants to do

"Sydney haven't done anything, Kay would be high on the list, cats already spent a lot coin, kings still got Cooks money left over."

Cats have already signed a lot of players, but I dont know if that means spent a lot of money as the players signed havent been the big ticket players yet (outside of Cotton and Pinder).

2 import spots left, at least 1 would be a big spending piece... and whilst they have said they want to run with just 2 imports this season this tells me they still have some money in the bank to throw around.

Perth outside of Pinder hasn't spent all their money. They had money for Pinder and WNW so I assume they still have the WMW money still left. Hence why they can afford Kay

What's the salary cap?

Im goin all in for Kay, duop and or thon

Go cheap. And sign Tuss, I cottons BFF fo cheap as Greg hire already said

Kay could make double or triple the money the Wildcats could offer him in Japan. I would love to see him back but I just don't see why he would do it.

And if they can somehow get him, there's no way they would have the money for a proven import that is as good as DJ Hogg.

I think they can go one of two ways:

1) Very expensive marquee/ lower level import
E.g. Nick Kay/Thon Maker marquee and Devondrick Walker import

2) Lower level marquee/ higher level import
E.g. Yanni Wetzell and DJ Hogg

Still not sure if they have the money for the second option.

I would rather them just throw everything at a Kay/Maker type player and get a lower/role-filling import tbh. I reckon Walker could be the perfect player to play SF for us - shooter, mates with Cotton, good size.

Thoughts?

If I had to guess which marquee player they eventually get (if any), I would say Finn Delany or Yanni Wetzell

Would almost be more New Zealanders than Aussies on the roster if that happened :)

Walker is NBL worthy for sure I wouldn't mind seeing him in a Cats uniform this season, unfinished business from that injury in 2017

How many more years have Motum & Kay got on their B-League contracts or are they available this year?

From having a quick look, I think both are only on 1 year deals currently (so both would be available for next NBL season)

But not 100%, that may be wrong

I am not sure where the Devondrick Walker love keeps coming from.

He has played NBL with SEM and then Bullets. both cases he was injury prone, he was injured the first season when Cats brought him in. Neither clubs saw fit to bring him back, bullets cut him early.

His averages were nothing special, not a great stat getter on boards, assists or rebounds from what I recall. Doesn't seem to impact games other than shooting a 3. He has had more than a shot at making it in the NBL and hasn't delivered.

Off the bench you look for high energy impact types. If your looking for a cheap import off the bench then an athletic, slasher, defender like Justin Simon is more the direction I would head. You have enough shooting ideally with the guard rotation and their final choice of 4 man. Slashing athletic 3 man players are all over college. Find the next Prather, Simon, Cleveland who all came to the league on much smaller salaries.

Why go with someone not really delivered in the big lights and especially in the cats case - doesnt really add to the defensive or rebounding presence they need in spades off the bench.

In terms of defense/rebounding off the bench, they've got Zunic/Hyrum Harris/Okwera/potentially Sarr who are all defensive specialists.
I don't think bench defense is the focus currently.

I agree with your point, and of course in an ideal world you discover the next Casey Prather or Antonius Cleveland, but it's very hit and miss, and much harder said than done.

The idea of bringing in Walker is that he would be on very small money, low risk high reward. All his other stints in the NBL have ended only because of injury. Even at Brisbane last year he was good in pre-season but was cut mainly because he was never available to play in-season.

If he gets injured or isn't good enough, so be it. Cut him and go after a diamond in the rough like you say. Not much is lost.

But if he can get healthy and put it together, he could be the best value for money player in the whole league.

Also I was only saying to go after him if they put all their money into a big name marquee player (Kay etc). If they can't get a good marquee, then absolutely I think they look for a higher-quality import than Walker.

From what I was told, I people very klose to cats upper mgmt.. We only missed out on maker a few years ago because of $$$

If ownerships has finally decided to open the cheque book,to sign a marquee local I can't see why they wouldn't pay for a

KAy
MAKER
REATH

And you can get walker for the low ''

Alternatively id be just as good with Justin Simon/dj Hogg
If u can combine them with a Delaney or wetzell,who shouldn't be too much

You have a pretty nice balance/ roster

Yes I agree.

I've heard that Wildcats are in discussions with Wetzell currently. I'd say he's the front runner right now.

Not sure how the fit with Pinder would work. You would expect Pinder to slide to the 4 and Wetzell to play the 5. But both are slashers/post players who need space to operate.

The spacing might be too clogged up with both of them.

Wetzell is a nice get

Webster
Cotton
?Import
Pinder
Wetzell

Not bad. Depends a on how budget import the cats get at SF..

Yeah I like it too. Would be up to John Rillie to make Pinder/Wetzell work.

I also wouldn't be surprised if Rillie rolls out the 3rd guard lineup again with Corey starting at the 3. I'm not a fan of it but I feel like he is.

Last season Corey was bad at the start of the season off the bench and got it going when he started, maybe same thing again this season.

Wetzel plays at alba, occasionally starts in bbl and euro league, had a reasonable season, not certain why he would leave that scenario to take a pay cut in Perth, even if he's a marquee.

New migration laws should help Cotton, hopefully cat's management all over it. It would certainly open up some dollars if he can be a marquee.

Well to be honest pretty much any marquee player currently in Europe would have to take a pay cut to play NBL.

Compared to leagues like Japan, the BBL pay isn't as crazy. Hence why guys like Wetzell/Delany are more likely than Kay/Maker/Reath

But yeah I agree, would be a long shot to get him

Dunkman whats the go with new migration laws?

They are simplifying to get part time visas and temporary work visas etc done quickly for people that are required in the country, trades, hospitality, farm and professionals, Cotton would certainly come into that class. In my layman understanding, basically if you contribute for I think it was four years, you are in. Cotton been here that time frame.

As I said cat's management should be all over this.

Wetzel and Delaney earn very good money in Germany and it's also a very strong league, ranked third behind nba, Spain.

Most sources estimate the average salary's for imports in the German league to be $100,000 - $300,000 USD roughly.

Delany and Wetzell would be on the lower end of that, which I think the Wildcats would be able to get close to.

And compared to leagues like Spain, Russia, Japan, China, even Italy, the German league is considerably lower in their pay.

So again, it's much much more likely the NBL/Perth are able to get Delany/Wetzell than any other marquees who are in those other leagues.

Not saying it's going to happen, but they are the best options.

You get accommodation and car on top of those figures and I believe that is nett dollars.

Bowen is a big miss, I but they must have figured that would happen once Travers didn't resign

Wetzell would be a great get but seems too good to be true?

Just a random thought... apparently Phoenix aren't keen on resigning Ryan Broekhoff so he's now considering retirement.

Thoughts on going after him? Could be a nice piece off the bench with good size and shooting. Wouldn't be expensive.

Been overly injury prone, suspect the main reason his NBA career ended. In the 3 seasons at SEM he hasn't been able to play more than 19-20 games a season

So you are missing him for a 3rd of the games.

I think the cats are on the right track with building youth along side a few stars like Cotton and Pinder.

Yeah fair call. Just a thought.

Seems like only yesterday he was in the NBA, and now he might retire. Shame his career has been ruined by injuries

Too injury prone

Didn't even know he played in NBA lol

Should the cats be lookin at R tucker as a import

Would he fit '' a lilnsuprised united hasnt resigned him as yet

Is his outside shot good x consistent enough to fill that 3 spot full time

Personally don't believe it is, but but having another player who kan create his own offense, I rather then just be a spot up shooter can also be helpful

Should the cats be lookin at R tucker as a import

Sacked him??

There will only ever be one R Tucker for the Wildcats.

That's Rashard Tucker. He was a good get for the Tigers in 2006 championship. Unlucky they didn’t win in 2007 but the Bullets were too good then.

Don’t you mean Rayjon Tucker who played for Melbourne United? I can’t see it working in Perth.

How much money would you say the salary of a budget import is ?
Specifics on each team if you think that comes into place ?

Budget import is around $20000 per month net plus car and accommodation. The gross figure all goes towards the cap, tax, car and accommodation is added. Absolute spud imports can get less, but you might as well get an Australian.

On a side note Pinder hasn't played the last few matches in Spain, he’s either injured or they released him.

20k USD a month? So the import is bringing home around 120k for the season?

A lot of these imports are budget imports then because a lot of them last season didn't earn that much

He is injured.. I tjink just bein safe, I with nbl season in mind

Startin to be a little concerning as it's a pattern, I of injuries and time off in past season

Hoping they r just preceeding cautiously

Nbl season is eight months and it's a net figure, tax goes on top and is part of cap as is car and accommodation.

John Brown III gets about $80-$90K USD a month in Europe. Tax free too I believe.

It's not tax free, the clubs pay the tax, players just like net figures so they know what they get in their pockets.

Just a sample, 8 months x 20k US equal to $242,000 aud plus car and accommodation. I'd say a lot people would be happy with that. You are probably getting a fair player for that but not the top enders.

A lot of imports will arrive start of September, making it a 6-7 month season. The NBL has the selling point again now of adding to that with another 3-4 months in Europe, Asia or Sth America afterwards.

Anyone know why the team hasn't announced Corey Webster resigning, even then it's been reported by Olgun Uluc?

And same with Alex Sarr? Though his hasn't been officially reported yet

Might be because they pulled some shenanigans there, C. Web was never under contract but they said he was so he didn't appear on the FA list. The stint in Montenegro probably complicated matters.

Corey Webster is official now.

The Perth Wildcats are thrilled to announce the re-signing of elite New Zealand shooting guard Corey Webster for the next two seasons, with a team option on the second year.

Apparently Sydney also interested in Jesse Wagstaff for next year, along with Tassie... don't think I could cope if he went to Sydney lmao

Heard from good source doup reath won't be 1 of the marquee locals

Bag is to biig overseas.. There is interest but cats won't come. Close enough to match what he gettin over there

Not even klose.. So I'd say that rules thon out as well

And probs means we looking at Delaney or wetzell

Kay.

Really?

If we kant afford reath don't see us affording Kay

But like my guy said duop is younger he playing for bag versus lifestyle right now.. Kay obv has diff factors.. Klose to end of career.. Friends x family all here, new kid otw

I doubt it but maybe that is enough to sway him

ALEX SARR SIGNING OFFICIAL
. BIG

ESPN Link

"I've been looking for a new challenge," Sarr said. "The OTE experience was great. I had all the resources in the world and improved a lot the past two years. I need to take the next step with my game now; the NBL is what I need."

bonne merde

Saar and Perth had a verbal agreement about a month ago . For various reasons now it's official. Great signing .

Also Nick Kay is not returning unfortunately

Does Sarr's official signing change the look of how the cats will recruit their final 3 positions?

is his brother coming to Oliver Sarr?

Kay.

I'm off the belief he’s returning, money might change that and his season not finished in Japan, we will see.
I’ve heard that cats are also looking at local fours who have played OS, Delaney?

Sarr press conference

Cant recall such a strong recruiting offseason as this in recent memory.

New ownership is really hitting it out of the park in terms of recruiting, almost better than the Bendandt era who recruited journeymen to join the club and rarely bid on the top Australians out there. (e.g. White , Majok, Lucas Walker etc..) When SEM took over we had an aging roster and not a lot of talent outside of Cotton. We regularly had players on the bench that would struggle to get a roster spot on a good club.

This year is looking very much like we are now recruiting more like Sydney and Melbourne.

Mgmt has stepped up

Won't even lie

I'd like to think my constant complaining re: all things SEG has paid off. :P

I'm off the belief he's [Kay] returning, money might change that and his season not finished in Japan, we will see.

SEG has always put the money in, been one of the biggest spenders on the reports that get leaked, the club was probably just too loyal to too many old players whose form had dropped off, and all the coaching changes dont help. Rillie even started off being loyal to the old guys, then the losing stacked up so he made the right call and benched them all to start winning.

This years recruiting of younger local guys, if they get a quality defensive minded wing (Justin Simon) and as close to Kay as possible as either a marquee aussie or import then they should have a quality group, which is alot younger and more athletic.

It's really hard to go through massive change after prolonged success, with no signs of imminent decline on the horizon.

In reality, the phantom threat of Gleeson leaving was always there, but the Red Army's judgement became clouded due to that success.

But then Gleeson leaves, and the teams on and off court culture is attacked. Resulting in an extremely unsuccessful season (relatively speaking), and a change in playing style and perceived culture.

The Scomo season was a bit like a bad clone sequel of the last Gleeson season. There wasn't a lot of change, the team was familar, had some moments, but overall it didn't deliver, with fans left wondering what the actual overal plan was.

Both Scomo and JR hands were tied when it came to the roster, with a little room for recruitment, but not enough to really stamp in their style.

It's been a hard road for the new administration, but this off season shows a bit of re-awakening of their commitment to the future and re-building success and a new identity. Sparing no expense while at it.

Now we finally have an off-season with wholesale changes being made. With the last of the Bevo era players in Wagstaff potentially going round one more time. And at least from a fans perspective, you start to see a bit of a plan developing, and there is a new hope of what the future may hold.

I don't have any negative thoughts towards Hutchy or SEN or SEG (I don't follow AFL, but understand there's some history there that causes people to not like Hutchy). But from a certain basketball only point of view, Hutchy has done no wrong and doesn't seem that evil. A couple of a "losing seasons" (with winning records).

New ownership is going to come with changes, good, bad or otherwise. It's been a rough start, but it seems a new foundation has been laid, and we may get to see the rise of a new Wildcats era.

Sorry, been playing too much Jedi: Survivor.

Yeah, I think there's been a bit of an overreaction in terms of the ownership. Had Bendat sold in 2016, the transition probably wouldn't have been as bad. Had Bendat still owned the team the past two seasons, there was probably still going to be a dip. Even now I'm seeing a lot of anger about the release of Norton and Blanchfield, the potential non-re-signing of Wagstaff, etc. "The recruiting is terrible, I've never heard of any of these players so they must be shit" is an actual thing I've heard said.

As I said before when someone was complaining about the Wildcats not doing enough to develop talent over the last decade or so, it's difficult to do while you're winning. If players get too good, they'll go elsewhere for opportunities rather than sitting behind the established stars. You're never going to be able to continue a smooth transition indefinitely. The club got very lucky that last time they went through a dip, the playoffs were expanded, and by the time they went back to a smaller playoff field they were back in contention. Norton and Kay were a decent mid-term plan, but Norto's body fell apart and Kay got too good.

Let's just hope this spending is followed up by execution - look at Adelaide.

Good point Perthworld. One thing in our favour is John Rillie is light years ahead of CJ Bruton as a coach, so I think he'll be able to get them to mesh.

Cats have picked up Rillie's 3rd year option.

The Perth Wildcats are excited to announce the club has picked up John Rillie's third year team option, keeping him at the helm as head coach until at least the end of the 2024/25 season.

Just about had a panic attack when I saw the "Members First News - John Rillie" subject line.

My first thought was "Trev the return" but this is also good news

Kay side unexpectedly knocked out in first round of finals, were probably second favourites going in. Things could now heat up.

Interesting that the best of 3 finals in the B-League are played on consecutive days no rest in between

They play midweek and Saturday and Sunday back ups regularly.

Committing to Rillie is a mistake.

He together with the ownership and ScoMo has killed Wildcats basketball (winning basketball) wholesale.

No defence. No rebounding. I don't think it lends itself to success.

Anyway thanks for taking the Grenade for the rest of the league.

Given recruiting which shows promise for the season, and is probably more in tune with the kind of team that Rillie wants around him, how about giving him the benefit of the doubt LB.?

If he farks up this season then you'll be proven right, but let’s just wait and see how it pans out.

It's a weird juncture at which to extend him though.

Considering the team Rillie inherited with a bunch of ageing role-players, lack of youth , height and athleticism I am not sure any of us can truly blame the last 2 seasons on him or Scomo. The club should of rebuilt in 2020 when Damo retired.

So this year is the first true test of Rillie with two MVP starters and a very strong backup roster. Adam Forde got to semis with less , so there wont be any excuses this year short of major injuries.

I think this is the season Rillie shows if he is worthy of being a head coach, cant blame him or Scomo with the last 2 seasons given how bad the teams were

The club should of rebuilt in 2020 when Damo retired.

In the NBL there is no rebuilds really, its not like AFL. Its more about renewal and refresh.

They should of moved on Majok for college players, kevin white played a year too long with us and so on. The good teams are constantly renewing their rosters. For a few years cats just thought Cotton = Championship and we paid the price.

This year is what should of happened after the Melbourne Grand final when it was clear they lacked depth once cotton was out.

This year is what should of happened after the Melbourne Grand final when it was clear they lacked depth once cotton was out.

Donate Russo is a nice get for the cats. Still really raw but a couple of years behind Tai and Cotton will be great experience for him

Norton was inspirational in the 2021 playoffs, and Blanchfield had some great games

A bit of historical revisionism going on here if you're suggesting those two should've been moved on in 2021. Absolutely nobody would've thought that a wise idea at the time. Hindsight is always seen in 20/20 vision.

There were other spots on the roster to consider changing. Norton and Blanchfield in 2021 were ~30 years. Other than Travis , young talent was light in the roster. If your strategy is to pay top dollar to 30 year olds then it stops you from getting those 25-27 year olds that are next generation.

By 2022 you had one of the older rosters in the league with Norton, Majok, Blanchfield, Wagstaff, Webster all with a 3X in front of them. From a list management point of view, even for good players there needs to be some look to the future.

Had they continued to dominate on court then no problem, but the last 2 years were some of the worst games and new bad records for the cats that showed the player list wasn't what was needed.

Norton was inspirational in the 2021 playoffs, and Blanchfield had some great games

A bit of historical revisionism going on here if you're suggesting those two should've been moved on in 2021. Absolutely nobody would've thought that a wise idea at the time. Hindsight is always seen in 20/20 vision.

The Perth Wildcats are thrilled to announce the signing of New Zealand teenage talent Dontae Russo-Nance on a three-year deal.
The deal will see Russo-Nance signed as a development player for the 2023/24 season, before being elevated to the main roster for the following two seasons.

I like the structure of the deal, hopefully Dontae hits his peak with us.

I'm assuming this is a byproduct of having a sister club in the NZNBL and staff scouting opponents first hand.

Great signing. To be honest he's already good enough to be a rostered player so lucky he's just starting as a DP

With the guard rotation now being Cotton/Webster/Webster/Harris/Henshall/Russo-Nance/Zunic, I can't see Kyle Zunic getting any significant minutes at all. Which isn't what you want for a rostered player.

Can't see him being on the Cats past this season

Said it a few weeks earlier Russo is still raw but he will be an absolute stud in a few years. He will learn along from a professional outfit like Perth and Cotton in particular. At this point Perth went from slow/old in-athletic team to one of the most athletic with a great foundation in one offseason. Rillie and the Cats front office deserve a lot of credit

Hit on the nail on the head perfectly right there Jimmyhooper15

Great signing from a perth perspective but I can't work out why russo has gone down the NBL route this early to be honest. Thought if anything a next star in a year or two. I'm not sure this deal will last. Reckon russo will either become impatient with his minutes or move to greener pastures in the US. Or both

Hope he goes well though

Jesse Wagstaff re-signing is official.

https://www.wildcats.com.au/news/wagstaff-re-signs-with-the-wildcats-for-15th-season

I'm assuming he has been re-signed for his intangibles.

[I know you're one-eyed and hyoerfocused on Melbourne but come on, at the time when the Cats made it somehow close against United you were disregarding their effort but now all of a sudden you've gone the other way.]

Not at all, I was super impressed at the time.

That entire playoff series was a massive credit to the Cats team, performing under duress. Not just Gleeson.

Not to mention his unmentionables and undesirables, PW. LOL

Not at all, I was super impressed at the time.

That entire playoff series was a massive credit to the Cats team, performing under duress. Not just Gleeson.

Not to mention his unmentionables and undesirables, PW. LOL

I believe they need a defensive import PG that can still score & import 3/4 man

Offensive wasn't the problem last season & you can’t have Cotton getting into foul trouble. The Websters are inconsistent offensively & can’t guard. I believe it should be

Import PG
Cotton & Corey Webster
DJ Hogg type of import 3/4
Pinder

That starting 5 could be lethal with
Tai, Harris, Sarr, Wagstaff coming off the bench.

I disagree NBL fan. They really do not need another PG. There are currently zero true wings on the roster, and Danny Mills has said they are targeting a true import wing.

Corey Webster most likely won't start, because playing him at SF just doesn't work. He's always been a guard. He's too small and can't defend other wings.

He'll come off the bench and hopefully be a sixth man of the year contender. Also if Corey was starting, there wouldn't been any offence coming off the bench. You would be expecting Tai Webster and maybe Ben Henshall/Michael Harris to be the offensive creators, which they aren't ready for yet.

Tai Webster is a true PG, and only a couple of years ago was one of the best local guards in the league with NZL. Averaged around 18pts/game. I back him to recapture his best form this season, and he will most likely start alongside Cotton in the backcourt.

I agree they need a defensive import, but that should be a Justin Simon-type, who plays wing but can guard the best guards in the league. Not a defensive PG.

But I do agree they need a DJ Hogg type at the 4, but that's easier said that done.

Tai is a very good playmaker. Last season he was with the cats for a few weeks and was playing on a whimper. He will have a full preseason and Will understand the plays the cats want to run and will thrive he is a very good " classical “ point guard.

Exactly right Jimmyhooper

Nick Kay sighting in latest training video from wildcats...

yeah what are the chances Kay resigns with the Cats? Walker was also at the session!

I just got a slight chub, cheers =)

Cooks, Brandt and others training at kings, don't get to excited, they are just staying in shape. Money talks.

Xavier Cooks?

Wildcats still looking for another import ? why not chase down Ennis ?

Yes, he's probably home having a break before heading back to US, as Brandt, Kay and others before they no where they are heading to, could be local or back OS. Professional sports always got work on there game, even in off seasons.

Membership prices have gone up again, in the month since they announced the prices.

Absolute scum of the earth club.

Well we all complained they were being cheap on recruiting , now they have spent big to get us good chance of title and prices go up. With inflation everything is going up in terms of costs for most organisations including sporting groups.

Not saying its good, but it is what it is. There is a good TV product as a backup.

Absolute scum of the earth club

Wildcats are the best club bar none. Blame the owners for the ticket prices.

65 cents a week how will I cope?

Money's too tight to mention.

Well we all complained they were being cheap on recruiting , now they have spent big to get us good chance of title and prices go up.

Wildcats are the best club bar none. Blame the owners for the ticket prices.

Okay well that is super scummy and unprofessional if it transpired like you say.

It's about the principle more than the principal now.

Piss off! Us supporters are the club! Not tubby Not Tubby and SEG.

Kay has a house in Perth and his better half is also from Perth. He lives there in the offseason and if he were to ever comeback in the next few years to play in the NBL it's only the Cats . That’s probably after his next big payday in Asia

My memberships went up by 3.85% - well below inflation, and then there was a $4.50 "Service Fee" (which is a new thing for Cats memberships) when making the payment. No complaints here.

Manek staying in Turkey, no great loss imo.

My memberships went up by 3.85%

Manek staying in Turkey, no great loss imo.

The Perth Wildcats are off to Las Vegas in September for an historic series against the NBA G League Ignite, featuring some of the top 2024 draft prospects.

Following the success of last year's pre-season games against French side Metropolitans 92, which included San Antonio Spurs-bound No.1 pick Victor Wembanyama, the Wildcats will become the first Australian NBL side to take on the Ignite.
The games take place at The Dollar Loan Center on September 6 and 8 as part of a nine-day trip to Nevada as preparations ramp up for the 2023-24 NBL season.
It will be the first glimpse Wildcats fans get of several exciting recruits including highly-rated NBL Next Star talent Alex Sarr, a projected top-20 2024 pick from France who’s the younger brother of Oklahoma City Thunder’s Olivier Sarr.

Anyone hearing anything about potential imports? Danny Mills has said they're leaning towards experienced pros rather than youth.

Also said they likely won't have played summer league this year

Thoughts?

Looking at Manek last season, he took too long to find his shot which cost us position on the ladder for sure. So getting someone more experienced players, with proven success elsewhere would be a good move. Our media and fan base is also very critical and unforgiving so you need players that can prove themselves pretty quick.

Manek is now a better player but its at our last seasons expense in a way. Make sense to the get a player after proving themselves out of college.

I just hope the players they get are defensively minded picks. (Like a Justin Simon, Cleveland etc..)

Just from last season alone, Defence and Rebounding, once the foundation of their success, has been erased from their DNA by the ownership and John Rillie.

To be fair, ScoMo started the decline, Rillie just accelerated it.

I understand they are taking steps to address some of those weaknesses but it remains to be seen what if any defensive schemes Rillie comes up with.

John Simon has signed in Israel.

LoveBroker please explain to me how Craig Hutchinson and the owners have literally any impact on the players' ability to play defesce. Point the fingers at the playing group themselves, or at Danny Mills for targeting offensive players like Manek, rather than defensive ones.

But saying the ownership is responsible for struggling defense is silly.

I think it is a mixture of personnel and coaching. I would argue you could see from day 1 someone like Manek was too slow for more mobile big men in the NBL. Thomas on the other hand was a defensive MVP in Europe and basically just never delivered on that, so is that the player or coach or a combination.

Lack of athleticism and height, I think was also a large factor. During the finals remember seeing Norton struggling to do anything against Bul Kuol who was driving straight in on him. Despite good position he would just be up to his armpits and Bul would shoot over him easy.

I think the cats got the memo this year on the need for height and athleticism and in the post season press-conferences they said as much. So hoping with a couple of seasons under the belt for Mills and second season for Rillie, they have figured out like Adam Forde and others what types of players are needed in this league.

Really good analysis there Ballman. With the additions of Okwera/Pinder/Sarr etc looks like they've improved in those areas you mentioned

Anyone know if Jarrell Brantley has signed anywhere for next season?

Surely he would be the perfect player for the Cats to target

According to Andrew Gaze, Duop Reath is rumoured to be a potential target signing for the Cats.

Sighted in Perth training last week.

Spending a few weeks alongside Pinder at the world cup training camp.

He was brilliant at summer league so he would be the same if not better at the Cats, fingers crossed

Olgun reporting that the Cats have signed 6'7 wing Jordan Usher to a one year deal

Looks good, what's his three point percentage, and how many a game.

Shot 40% from three. Made 1.3 a game, took 3.3 a game.

Cats just need him to keep the defence honest and hit open shots. Looks like he can do that.

Was temanates with Pinder on the Suns Summer League team

https://youtu.be/GQPnAsnVym0

Has a nice shooting stroke

Looks like a good pickup. But just to correct the above, he onyl had one year above 40% from three in colleage and that was 2017. Followed by three years below 30% and one year at 34% in his final season. Still looks like a good pickup though.

40% in his first professional season as well to add to above.

Yep thanks for that, Bored.

I was just referencing his first pro season last year when I said 40% from three above.

Olgun mentioned he will provide a "DPOY-like wing presence", but from what I've seen, looks almost more of a Casey Prather/James Ennis slasher type, rather than a defensive specialist.

Prather is exactly who I thought of as well!

Looks like a great addition if true. More like what the cats needed last year from Maneks position. Wont be as good a shooter but brings a lot more to the team

My thoughts on watching his 2022-23 highlights on youtube and college as well.

- explosive speed in transition
- good penetration, like Prather/Ennis
- good decision making around the basket , pump fakes, reverse layups. Reminds me of Wagstaff in some ways having a few bag of tricks when in the key
- can shoot the three
- good hands, can create the steal
- decent passing skills from the top of the key
- looks to be an energy guy - we need one of those

I could see the guards and our new big men loving someone like him slashing and creating offence/passes.

Excited if this is true.

Not to mention : Some serious athleticism and showtime ability for the crowd :)

We Get Duop and another Import we are back smoking.

We can't get Duop and another import. Can only have a total of 4 marquee players and imports. Keanu, Duop would be marquees. Bryce, Usher are imports.

So it's another import, or Duop.

"You need me to jump on the floor, I'm jumping on the floor. You need me to sit on the bench, I'm sitting on the bench. You need me to jump through a wall, that's what I'm doing."

Love that!!

I'm just relieved we get to put Brady Manek behind us.

We can't get Duop and another import. Can only have a total of 4 marquee players and imports. Keanu, Duop would be marquees. Bryce, Usher are imports.

I know, but it is also certain that both Keanu and Duop would be listed as marquees, as if a player is a marquee, only a small portion of their salary is included under the salary cap.

Perth would have to pay massive luxury tax if they didn't list both as marquees, as they would almost certainly be over the cap.

They also only have 1 roster spot left - No room for Duop + 3rd import

Reath looked really solid in Summer league, he often trains in Perth, not sure if it means anything but anyhow:

Reath, Sarr, Jack Andrew
Pinder, David Okwera, Wagstaff
Usher, Harris
Cotton, Henshall, Harris
Webster, Webster, Zunic, Dontae Russo-Nance

Should be fun to watch

"I'm just relieved we get to put Brady Manek behind us."

Yep, glad that bloke's been banished to the Euroleague ;-)

Like nba, not every player in euro league is good.

We'll see how he performs. Put a guy who's a quality offensive talent with defensive deficiencies at a club with an offensive-minded rookie coach and an offensive-minded roster and you'll get exactly what Manek produced last season.

Manek benefiting from the cats not sacking him early to get his next pro gig. Good on him but good we have moved on.

Reath is unlikely given he can command more overseas

Usher is official, yes yes!

Wonder what type of player we will go with for the final spot.

Minus the Duop Reath chatter and assumed joke references to D Cousins and H Whiteside anyone got an inkling as to who else is on the cats radar for the last spot? I have faith they are in talks with some weapons but am not going to rule out a dumb move for a DJ or Hodgson type emergency contract.

The cats will have a playing minutes problem so I would think the last player is either a starter or a pure role player. If we think they have the starting 5 determined, then its a role player.

General consensus (Danny Mills has said this too) is that they are looking for a starting PF, not just a role player currently.

In the West Australian's article on the Jordan Usher signing, Mills said a signing isn't imminent currently, and they are still surveying the market. He said the signing will most likely occur after pre-season starts (coming Monday).

If they are still surveying the market, this means Duop Reath probably isn't happening. Not unexpected.

As for potential players, a name I've heard a bit is Quintin Dove, who currently plays for the Joondalup Wolves in NBL1 West. Was the scoring leader and All-NBL1 first team. John Rillie has also been in attendance of the last few Wolves games.

It's always a mystery how well players translate from NBL1 to NBL, but similar to Duop, if Mills says they are still looking, he may be a just a backup option in case they can't someone who is higher quality.

"If they are still surveying the market, this means Duop Reath probably isn't happening."

Or that he is still weighing up offer and the Cats are prepared to wait.

Dove is good hopefully he wins it for Wolves tomorrow night

From the depth chart thread:

and you heard it here first despite reading another thread if it happens folks Johnny O'Bryant to Perth

Yes I saw it too. Won't bother commenting properly until something more concrete but looks solid. NBA experience. Perhaps lacks just a tad of shooting but haven't researched properly.

Fun fact from a quick google: founded and owns an Anime Manga company

Seems like a journey man, played everywhere in europe. Seems unsized. Ain't they looking for a centre?

No, looking for PF to play alongside Pinder. He's 6'9. That's fine.

sorry i was trying to find this thread to put o'bryant I think it's 95% going to happen

Thanks for the info.

he is following the wildcats on Instagram

The nickel-and-diming continues, they're now charging us $10 to ship our membership packs.

Won't somebody please think of the shareholders?

Sports Entertainment Group Ltd (SEG)
1 YR RETURN -33.93%

And the members' day is on a Monday at 9.30am. Wouldn't want too many people attending, obviously.

I'm glad my credit card expired as they tried to auto renew my family pass. Only when it bounced did they ring and ask if I wanted to renew

I've always got a few emails beforehand telling me unless I acted before a particular date it would auto renew

That chart is pretty representative of most ASX stock, most don't ever regain their highs.

Yes, it is representative of most dud ASX stocks with SEG being one of them.

"The nickel-and-diming continues, they're now charging us $10 to ship our membership packs."

This isn't quite a complete picture, as each member gets $30 of credit. So effectively you can get your membership pack (doesn't count towards the credit), pick a few items up to $20, and then use the remaining $10 to cover the shipping.

"And the members' day is on a Monday at 9.30am. Wouldn't want too many people attending, obviously."

If I'm not mistaken, that Monday is a public holiday in WA.

Ah, so it is.

And its the season launch members day isnt it? which is usually held on a week day anyway. The fan day is the one that's on the weekend?

Eeek



(On the Herald Sun news site, but paywalled)

I'm glad Hutchi got a $500k bonus last year, i mean he clearly earnt it, they wouldn't have lost so much money without his assistance

Bet he sells the Wildcats after we go on an epic 15 game winning streak.

Good rule of thumb for investing. Buy high, sell high.

And its the season launch members day isnt it? which is usually held on a week day anyway. The fan day is the one that's on the weekend?

Is that the bamboo Hutchy hides behind when financiers come knocking?

Pfft, hardship over a $28mil loan. Pretty representative of most ASX stock, apparently.

The full article makes for some pretty grim reading and sadly confirms what I've been saying, since the Wildcats acquisition, about the SEG business model not making any sense.

Hutchy went all-you-can-eat not only at the buffet but also on acquiring media and sports assets.

Craig Hutchison's business woes after $9.2m loss
AFL media mogul Craig Hutchinson’s company is being held up by a $28 million loan that underwrites his SEN radio network and the Perth Wildcats.

Football big wig Craig Hutchison’s company is at risk of the Commonwealth Bank calling in a $28 million loan that underwrites his SEN radio network, the Perth Wildcats and a Super Netball league team.

Documents filed with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission state that the bank had the right to seek "immediate settlement" of the loan, which is due in August next year.

His company Sports Entertainment Group posted a $9.2 million loss in the year to June 30.

Sports Entertainment Group’s preliminary final report details the issues with its $28.7 million Commonwealth Bank loan.

The company still has slightly more than $1 million available of its $28.7 million line of credit with the bank.

The report states that Sports Entertainment Group had to ask for “covenant relief” from the bank in the June quarter of this year.

“The covenant relief confirmed that the bank did not exercise its right to request immediate settlement of the liability,” the report said.

Company loans often include conditions about how much debt can be carried in comparison with the value of the company’s assets.

Shares in the company were trading at 20 cents this week, compared with 40 cents when Mr Hutchison took over the business in January 2018.

The Herald Sun asked Mr Hutchison about the loan but his office responded because he was overseas, with the Wildcats currently in Las Vegas.

“We have a close working relationship with our financier and continue to work within the parameters of our facility which is due to expire 31 August 2024 (as disclosed), with our intention to renew for a further term in due course,” a SEN statement read.

The group lost $5.5 million in its investments in its New Zealand operations, which runs a sports broadcaster under the SENZ brand.

The sale of its 20 per cent stake in the Melbourne United Basketball Club netted the company $1.8 million, but the purchase of the Wildcats added $1.1 million in “transaction costs”.

The report states that earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) from its continuing operations was $4.7 million, while it also says that its digital audience on its app had reached 1.4 million monthly average users and a 27 per cent increase in revenue.

Mr Hutchison has been on a buying spree, adding the NBL and Super Netball teams, along with two small newspapers in Margaret River, Western Australia.

The company also picked up the 4KQ radio network in Brisbane, rebranding as SENQ to replicate its format in Melbourne and Sydney.

Former Australian wicketkeeper Ian Healy is the host of the SENQ breakfast show, while Hutchison also continues to pay journalist Gerard Whateley, who has been described by his colleague Tim Watson as the third highest paid AFL media personality.

Three new racing radio stations were launched in Bendigo, Southwest Gippsland and Shepparton under the SENTrack brand

Perth rich lister Rhonda Wyllie, former partner of Collingwood president Jeff Browne, was behind a fund that pumped almost $10 million into the company when Mr Hutchison took it over in 2018.

The release of the company’s preliminary report comes after prominent reporting on the company’s finances in The Australian’s media section last month.

“Our house is built now in audio,” he told The Australian.
“The footprint of our Australian and New Zealand stations and audio distribution is complete. It’s a really valuable future network across sport and racing that we look forward to extracting value from for years to come.”

No details of executive pay was included in the report, which was listed on ASIC on August 31.

Mr Hutchison received a $500,000 bonus last year, increasing his income to almost $1.5 million in 2022.

Was listening to an NBA Podcast yesterday (The Ringer), right at the end they asked Kevin O'Connor out of the players he has interviewed for next years draft who impressed the most the his answer was Sarr. Said out of the players coming through he looks to have the most upside. The draft itself isnt a great one but really is looking like the Cats got the right Next Star.

John Rillie in the West Australia - "It would take a miracle or Hail Mary" to get the third import before the start of the season :/

Perth can afford to take their time for nowgiven this team is deep and usher seems to be a gun

Wildcats announce 3rd import - Kristian Doolittle

The Perth Wildcats are excited to announce the signing of Kristian Doolittle as the club's final import for the NBL24 season.
The 25-year-old from Oklahoma is a well-rounded talent who possesses defensive versatility, scoring ability and a physical presence at both ends of the court.

Doolittle spent four years playing for University of Oklahoma in the NCAA’s top division, alongside Atlanta Hawks star Trae Young, LA Laker Austin Reaves and former Wildcat Brady Manek.

He was named in the All-Big 12 First Team in 2019-20 after leading the Sooners’ scoring with 15.8 points to go with 8.9 rebounds and two assists per game.

Since his college days, the athletic 201cm forward has played in Japan, Puerto Rico, Israel and the NBA G-League.

A 3-D-Rebound 3-4 man, seems like a really good fit for Perth.

Looks like a solid pick up.

Released by Limoges CSP due to altercation with the coach? anyone know more about this?

Perhaps the coach thought he was doing too little?

I'll see myself out.

Wildcats fans will be hoping he does lots this season

As long as it's not a case of "doo little doo late"

Doesn't look like I can't find anymore details about it. He didn't even play a game for that team before he got released sheesh.

On paper he looks good. Though he seems more like SF/PF so will be interesting to see how he goes playing the 4 more.

Not really undersized for an NBL 4, but if Pinder is healthy and Sarr continues his form having a 3/4 is fine on paper. Looking at his Israeli league stats as an indicator looks like he'll rebound and hit the odd 3. Probably has a more obvious role in this squad than Travers did last season.

I told you guys offensive wasn't a big problem it was defense. Webster brothers were inconsistent and couldn’t guard Doyle. Had Doolittle trying to guard Crawford, Doyle & McVeigh

I said they needed a defensive PG who can also score, Cotton can’t do all the scoring and facilitating himself. Cotton gets doubled and kicks it out to players who can’t shoot 3’s. Scott Roth exploited forcing others beat you instead of Cotton and Perth couldn’t hit shots. Perth went 3-13 from 3 with Cotton the only player who hit one

What makes Doyle so dangerous is he has shooters around him, you can’t really double him and he’s a helluva 1 on 1 player. Perth go get a scoring guard that can defend with Cotton!