DREWITTS BULBS MATCH PREVIEW: New-Look Phoenix Ready to Take on Perth for HoopsFest

Key Details
PERTH WILDCATS vs SOUTH EAST MELBOURNE PHOENIX
Where: RAC Arena
When: Friday, September 20 at 8:30pm AEST
EVERY GAME LIVE ON ESPN VIA KAYO 

The Phoenix have 10 new faces in its lineup, with just four returning from the NBL24 season. Head coach Mike Kelly's side will be out to make a good early impression as they play for points for the first time on Friday night.

The Phoenix finished their preseason prep with two solid wins at the Blitz against the Sydney Kings and Adelaide 36ers, showcasing the talent of sharpshooter Joe Wieskamp, and the depth of an experienced bench which will no doubt hold the team in good stead.

The Wildcats, again led by the NBL24 MVP Bryce Cotton, have a similar lineup to last season with an additional four new faces. 

Besides being the season's first game for both sides, fans and NBA scouts will see Phoenix's Next Star, Malique Lewis, go head-to-head with Wildcat's Next Star, Izan Almansa.

(The players will be bringing the Heartland to HoopsFest. CLICK HERE to get yours.)

TEAMS

Phoenix

The Phoenix will go into Friday night's game with a full squad to hit the court.

Wildcats

The Wildcats will go into Friday night's game with a full squad with captain Bryce Cotton will return to the side after missing the Blitz with a thumb issue.

KEEP AN EYE ON

The Battle with Bryce Cotton

How to stop Bryce Cotton? It's a simple question, but it's a task for the full squad to minimise the effect the seasoned point guard can have on the game and his side.

HISTORY

Regular Season Head-to-Head
Phoenix 7-10 Wildcats

Last time out – RD 17, NBL24
Phoenix 91-103 Wildcats

Phoenix
Creek 29p
Ayre 23p
Foxwell 10p

Wildcats
Pinder 23p
Cotton 21p
Sarr 18p

Foxy lighting it up! 👌

📺 ESPN ➡️ Kayo | Foxtel pic.twitter.com/Enkc0jRdwa

— South East Melbourne Phoenix (@SEMelbPhoenix) January 27, 2024