Perth Wildcats vs Illawarra Hawks NBL Game Preview

November 1, 2024 | 9:30PM (AEDT) RAC Arena

Perth Wildcats vs Illawarra Hawks NBL Game Preview

In this pivotal Round 7 NBL showdown, the Perth Wildcats face off against the Illawarra Hawks. Both teams are striving to gain momentum, with the Wildcats looking to build off a recent win at home, while the Hawks aim to get back in the winners column after a string of challenging games. With home-court advantage and a strong track record against Illawarra, the Wildcats are seen as a major chance, but the Hawks’ young talent and hunger for a win could set the stage for an intense contest.

Key Matchups

Tai Webster (Perth) vs. Tyler Harvey (Illawarra)

This high-scoring guard matchup is a must-watch. Tai Webster on of the Wildcats top scorers will look to exploit the Hawks' defense with his long-range shooting and ability to create off the dribble. On the other hand, Tyler Harvey, Illawarra’s most dynamic scoring threat, has the potential to light up the scoreboard and will be crucial in keeping the Hawks competitive. The battle between Websters consistency and Harvey’s explosive potential could shape the game's flow and final outcome.

Keanu Pinder (Perth) vs. Sam Froling (Illawarra)

In the frontcourt, Pinder and Froling will clash in a battle of athleticism and skill. Pinder, a strong rebounder and emerging scorer, gives Perth a solid interior presence. Froling, known for his agility and versatility, can stretch the floor for Illawarra and bring a unique offensive skill set. If Pinder can dominate the boards and limit Froling’s scoring opportunities, it’ll be a big advantage for Perth, but Froling’s ability to score inside and outside could force Perth to adjust defensively.

Key Stats

Perth Wildcats:

• Perth has allowed fewer than 90 points in each of its last four games - team's equal-longest streak since 2021-22

• Heading into Round 7, Perth ranks 1st in the league for offensive rebounds per game this season (15.9)

• Heading into Round 7, Keanu Pinder ranks 1st amongst qualified players for points per 36 minutes (23.8) this season.

Illawarra Hawks:

• Illawarra has won each of its last three games against Perth.

• Heading into Round 7, Illawarra ranks 1st in the league for points per game this season (97.8).

• Illawarra is scoring 105.5 points per 40 minutes while William Hickey is on the floor this season - highest mark of any qualified player in the league heading into Round 7.

Why the Perth Wildcats Win

For Perth, a strong showing from Webster and Pinder will be instrumental. If Webster can maintain his shooting accuracy and Pinder controls the glass, the Wildcats will have the upper hand. Their ability to knock down three-pointers and keep a tight defense at RAC Arena gives them an edge, especially if they limit the Hawks’ second-chance opportunities. Consistent ball movement and effective screens will help Webster find his shot, and if Perth’s role players step up, the Wildcats should be in a solid position to secure a win.

Why the Illawarra Hawks Win

The Hawks’ best path to victory lies in disrupting Perth’s rhythm and capitalizing on second-chance points. If Harvey can match Cotton’s scoring output and Froling can contribute across the floor, Illawarra will keep things competitive. Winning the rebounding battle and slowing down Perth’s transition offense will be essential. Additionally, if the Hawks can stifle Perth’s three-point shooters and generate offence in the paint, they’ll create an opportunity to snap their road losing streak against the Wildcats.

Final Thoughts

Expect a fiercely contested game with Perth’s potent scoring power going up against Illawarra’s gritty, resilient approach. If the Wildcats can lean on Websters offence and Pinder’s rebounding, they’ll likely edge out a victory at home. But if the Hawks can control the paint and find their rhythm from beyond the arc, they could make this a nail-biter and potentially surprise Perth in front of the RAC Arena crowd.