Perth Wildcats vs New Zealand Breakers NBL Round 10 Game Preview

Nov 30, 2024

2 min read

Tip-Off 4:30 PM AEDT | RAC Arena

Perth Wildcats vs New Zealand Breakers Expert Analysis

The Perth Wildcats host the New Zealand Breakers at RAC Arena in a Round 10 clash.

Perth comes into the matchup on a high, boasting a five-game home winning streak and fresh off a dominant 28-point victory against Brisbane. Meanwhile, New Zealand is reeling from a lacklustre performance against Illawarra, where their offence sputtered once again.

The Wildcats will aim to leverage their home-court advantage and offensive depth, while the Breakers look to shake off their recent struggles and integrate Tacko Fall into their line-up effectively.

Key Matchups

Bryce Cotton vs. New Zealand Perimeter Defence

Cotton remains the engine for Perth’s offence, and his three-point shooting could be decisive. The Breakers’ perimeter defence, anchored by Will McDowell-White, will need to slow him down to keep the game competitive.

Tacko Fall vs. Perth’s Interior Attack

Fall’s shot-blocking presence adds a new dimension to New Zealand’s defence, but Perth’s versatility and ability to stretch the floor could mitigate his impact. Watch for Elijah Pepper and Ben Henshall attacking off the dribble to test Fall’s mobility.

Key Stats

Perth Wildcats: Average 91 PPG (3rd in NBL) and hit 45% from three in their last game.
New Zealand Breakers: Averaging just 70.66 PPG in their last three outings and rank last in the league in rebounds (39.4 RPG).
Perth at Home: Five straight wins at RAC Arena.
New Zealand Offence: Ranked 8th in the NBL (83.9 PPG) and struggling for consistency.

Why Perth Wins

Perth is firing on all cylinders offensively, with eight players scoring in double digits in their last game. Their three-point shooting, led by Cotton and supplemented by Windler and Pepper, will stretch the Breakers’ defence. At home, the Wildcats’ confidence and depth will likely overwhelm a Breakers team still figuring out its offensive identity.

Why New Zealand Wins

If the Breakers can utilise Tacko Fall effectively on both ends, he could alter the game with his rim protection and rebounding. A bounce-back performance from their guards, particularly Matt Mooney, is crucial. New Zealand needs to establish a rhythm early to avoid falling into another scoring slump.

Prediction

The Wildcats’ offensive versatility and strong home-court form make them the clear favourites. New Zealand’s lack of offensive cohesion and struggles on the boards will likely be their undoing. Expect Perth to control the tempo and continue their impressive run at RAC Arena.