Perth Wildcats NBL25 Mid-Season Grades

Perth Wildcats NBL25 Mid-Season Grades

Even with a recent FIBA break, the NBL season is progressing rapidly, with teams having played approximately half their schedule. This makes it an ideal time to look at a set of mid-season report cards for the Perth Wildcats as they strive to take the next step and reach the Grand Final after falling short to Tasmania at home last season in the semi-finals.

Kristian Doolittle (8.5)

The second-year import continues to rise in stardom. From averaging 9 points per game last season, Doolittle has increased his output to 14 points per game. He is a key player in the Wildcats' championship push.

Bryce Cotton (8)

Despite some talk of his decline and his impeding contract status, Cotton is quietly delivering another high-quality season. An early-season injury in New Zealand sidelined him for five games, but he bounced back with a club-record 59-point performance against the Breakers last weekend. He remains a strong contender to add another MVP award to the four he has already won.

Keanu Pinder (7.5)

A wildly inconsistent season for the former Taipan. His best showing was a 34-point effort against the Kings in October when the Wildcats were quite undermanned. Pinder continues to shoot the ball at an impressive 50.4% but needs to be a more dominant presence on the glass.

Dylan Windler (7)

Injuries have stunted his progress, but the former first-round NBA draft pick has demonstrated a very versatile game, showing why the Wildcats signed him. Windler rebounds well for his height and has displayed elite defensive skills at times.

Izan Almansa (7)

NBL icon Lanard Copeland recently described Almansa as "so athletic, tall, and strong." Almansa continues to improve throughout the season, providing a real scoring punch off the bench. However, his free-throw shooting needs work, as he is hitting just 56% from the line this season.

Ben Henshall (6.5)

Henshall is making a strong case for the NBL’s Most Improved Player award, increasing his output to almost 10 points per game from just 3 points last season. The local Perth product broke out with a 26-point performance against the Hawks last month, as he thrived on more responsibility with Cotton sidelined. A player with immense potential, Henshall could one day hear his name called on NBA draft night if he continues to progress.

Tai Webster (6)

Another Wildcat who has battled injuries this season, Webster remains a key contributor as the Wildcats chase another title. Playing with high energy, he is shooting an impressive 45% from three-point range this season. Coach John Rillie will be sweating on his availability going forward as he is still the best option for the club at point guard.

Elijah Pepper (6)

Although his shot has been inconsistent at times, Pepper has shown he is a capable NBL player with plenty of room to grow. At just 23 years old and in his first professional season, he is unafraid of big moments. His development will be worth watching in the coming seasons.

Jesse Wagstaff (5.5)

Wagstaff's importance goes beyond individual numbers. Known for his "team-first" mentality, he broke Ricky Grace’s long-standing games record for the Wildcats in a loss to the Phoenix in early November. Still capable of hitting clutch three-pointers, his leadership in the locker room will be pivotal as he aims for a remarkable seventh title.

Hyrum Harris (5)

The burly forward has found opportunities harder to come by in his second season with the Wildcats. Harris continues to work hard when on the floor but will need to make better use of his chances or risk being on the outer at season’s end.

David Okwera (4)

The former Melbourne United big man has appeared in only seven games this season. However, in a promising sign for the future, he scored 12 points in limited minutes against the Bullets last weekend. To earn more playing time, Okwera needs to improve his defence and rebounding.

Michael Harris (3.5)

In limited opportunities, Harris has struggled to make an impact. His shooting percentages have declined across the board compared to last season. He will need to regain his shooting touch to secure meaningful minutes moving forward.

Team (7)

The Wildcats have had a solid yet unspectacular first half of the season. Injuries have taken their toll, and while their home form has been strong, the team will be eager to address their dismal road record, with just one away win so far this season. Under coach Rillie, the team continues to score freely, but their defensive performance in the coming games will be the key to determining their fate as they strive to make their first Grand Final since 2021.