The Wildcats controlled key moments and powered home late, turning a tight contest into a strong 88-75 win at home over the NZ Breakers. The Wildcats set the tone from the opening tip with Dylan Windler and Elijah Pepper knocking down early threes, getting away to an 8-0 start. Jo Lual-Acuil Jr. set the tone inside with strong rebounding, a block and a put-back finish, while Kristian Doolittle added defensive pressure and touch around the rim as Perth built a 22-14 quarter-time lead.
New Zealand responded strongly in the second, lifting their defensive intensity and pushing the pace. Parker Jackson-Cartwright drove much of their momentum, earning repeated trips to the line and helping the Breakers close the gap. Perth were forced to absorb a stretch of turnovers and tough shots as New Zealand briefly edged ahead. Ben Henshall shifted the tide with attacking drives and important defensive rebounds, Pepper steadied the group with free throws and composure, and Doolittle worked relentlessly on the glass to keep Perth in touch as the game tightened. The Breakers continued to apply pressure through Rob Baker, Reuben Te Rangi and Rob Loe from long range, but the Wildcats delivered a strong finish to regain control.
With the half winding down, Pepper rose for a confident pull-up three to restore breathing room, as the Wildcats went into halftime 43-38 in front, setting up a big second half at RAC Arena.
The Wildcats controlled key moments and powered home late, turning a tight contest into a strong 88-75 win at home over the NZ Breakers.
Author's summary: Perth Wildcats seized momentum with hot shooting early, maintained defensive discipline, and closed the game with a controlled finish to secure an 88-75 victory over the NZ Breakers at RAC Arena.
Key performers
- Dylan Windler – early three-pointer spark and overall scoring threat.
- Elijah Pepper – steadying presence with free throws and crucial late shots.
- Jo Lual-Acuil Jr. – interior presence with rebounding and finishing around the rim.
- Kristian Doolittle – relentless defensive work and interior touch.
First half recap
Perth established tempo early, leading 22-14 after the opening period. The Breakers answered with defensive intensity and pace in the second, trimming the deficit before Pepper's late second-quarter triple gave the Wildcats a five-point halftime edge.
Second half outlook
With Pepper's timely shotmaking and Doolittle's second-half work on the boards, Perth maintained control to close out the game in front of their home crowd at RAC Arena.