Perth statement before Bryce Cotton blockbuster

• Wildcats dominate start to finish in 96–84 home win.
• Tanner Krebs erupts for 29 points on blistering 12-of-14 shooting.
• Jo Lual-Acuil Jr anchors Perth with 18 points and 3 blocks.
• Dave Okwera impresses with maturity and efficiency off the bench.

As far as Ws go, this was as big as it gets for Perth before Sunday's blockbuster return of former Wildcats star and five-time MVP Bryce Cotton.

The Wildcats handle their business at home against the all-conquering Melbourne United 96-84 at RAC Arena in Round 11 of NBL26 on Thursday, December 4, 2025.

"What I really liked was just our consistent effort from start to finish," head coach John Rillie said.

"We just didn’t have that the last time we played them. So, shout out to the coaching staff and the players — the way they conducted themselves through the break.

"For me it’s always tricky, and you hold your breath to see how your team comes out after having such an extended break.

The Wildcats led for all but 21 seconds and by as many as 23 points. They are now rock solid in the top 4 at 9-6 while United dropped to 13-3 but still two games ahead of the Bryce Cotton's Adelaide 36ers.

Rillie said he was impressed with 23-year-old role player Dave Okwera, who finished with 11 points on 4-from-5 from the field and four boards in just 11:20. Rillie revealed Wildcats centre Jo Lual-Acuil Jr has helped in his development.

"I think it’s a combination of things," Rillie added.

"When I first met Dave Okwera — before I was even with the Perth Wildcats — he thought he was the next Kevin Durant.

"There’s only going to be one KD. We all dream. But I think he’s very comfortable with who he is as a basketball player now, and he’s evolving. That comes with maturity. He’s been in the league since he was 17. He’s played for Melbourne and Perth — teams with high expectations.

"He’s stuck with it. He’s been with us three years, so the continuity helps.

"Jo has been tremendous for him. Jo being back here, and Dave going against Jo every day at practice, has been great to see.

"Jo can take some of the credit for that."

Perth's balanced scoring — five players in double figures — offset the absolute 85% FG barn-burner United wing Tanner Krebs delivered. Krebs dropped 29 points in just 21 minutes on a ridiculous 12-from-14 from the field (4-from-5 threes).

Perth face the Adelaide 36ers on Sunday. It's the first time Cotton, 33, will be back in Perth since leaving the club at the end of NBL25.

Key Details

• Result: Perth Wildcats 96 def. Melbourne United 84
• When: Wednesday, 4th December 2024
• Where: RAC Arena, Perth
• Standings

By the Numbers

• Tanner Krebs (Melbourne United) starred with 29 points and two rebounds in 21 minutes
• Jo Lual-Acuil Jr (Perth Wildcats) contributed 18 points, four rebounds, two assists and three blocks in 30 minutes

What Happened

The Wildcats established early dominance, opening with a commanding 33-20 first quarter that set the tone for their comprehensive victory. Perth maintained their advantage throughout the contest, leading by 13 points at half-time (56-42) before extending their margin in the third period. The hosts controlled proceedings for 39 minutes and 39 seconds of game time, never allowing United to seize momentum.

Melbourne United's Tanner Krebs provided the night's standout individual performance, erupting for 29 points on outstanding 12-from-14 shooting from the field, including an efficient 4-from-5 from beyond the arc. His explosive scoring display kept United competitive despite their team's struggles, with the young guard proving he belongs at NBL level with this clutch performance off the bench.

For Perth, Jo Lual-Acuil Jr anchored both ends of the floor with 18 points and three blocks, while Dylan Windler contributed 13 points on efficient 5-from-8 shooting, including 3-from-4 triples. David Duke Jr added 15 points despite struggling with his shot selection, going 6-from-18 from the field. The Wildcats' balanced scoring attack proved too much for United to contain, with five players reaching double figures.

Perth's superior shooting efficiency proved decisive in the contest. The Wildcats connected on 46% from the field (33-from-71) compared to United's poor 39% (31-from-79). From downtown, Perth shot a solid 39% (9-from-23) while Melbourne struggled at 28% (9-from-32). The hosts also dominated at the charity stripe, converting 62% of their free throws to United's 81%, though United attempted significantly fewer attempts.

The Wildcats' defensive intensity limited United's scoring opportunities, forcing 11 turnovers while committing just 10 themselves. Perth also enjoyed a slight rebounding advantage (45-43) and recorded more blocks (six to two), showcasing their rim protection throughout the contest. This comprehensive team performance demonstrated Perth's depth and ability to control games on both ends of the court.