Phoenix Lose to Wildcats

The South East Melbourne Phoenix went into tonight's clash on a three-game winning streak in Perth.

The first quarter was relatively even with the Phoenix heading into the break up by one point.

A second quarter where the away team managed just 14 points saw the Wildcats make sure that the Phoenix winning streak at RAC Arena was not hitting four, and by half time the visitors were down by 13.

The Phoenix cut the lead to six in the third, but the Wildcats had an answer each time they edged closer.

A late run from the Phoenix in the final term cut the lead to three with 27.9 seconds left, but it was too little too late with the Wildcats closing out the game with a couple of quick buckets.

Phoenix head home to face cross-town rivals Melbourne United in Throwdown XVIII on Saturday at 5:30pm.

The Result
South East Melbourne Phoenix 96 v 103 Perth Wildcats

The Numbers

Phoenix
Mitch Creek: 32 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists
Alan Williams: 16 points 8 rebounds, 3 assists
Reuben TeRangi: 12 points, 8 rebounds

Wildcats
Bryce Cotton: 32 points

The Turning Point

A 14 point second quarter from the Phoenix saw a first quarter one point lead blow out to a 13 point deficit by the main break giving the Wildcats a nice buffer going into the second half.

The Player of the Game

Hard to split Creek and Williams, both were huge for the Phoenix, but with 32 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists, the honours went to Creek who kept the score board ticking over while his teammates struggled at times to score.

The Play of the Game

With the Phoenix on the march in the final quarter the ball found its way to Creek on the elbow and he drained the three to cut the lead from nine to six.

From the Coach

Simon Mitchell

"We started well, but then went on a bit of a turnover festival that put us in a hole and kick started their offence."

From the Player

Alan Williams

"I'm looking forward to getting back to the Fire Pit and playing in another Throwdown, anytime you get to play in one it's a big deal. I can't wait to get back in front of the best fans in the league."

Limited tickets still remain for Throwdown XVIII on Saturday against Melbourne United. CLICK HERE to secure your seat.

Phoenix Media (17/11/22)