Perth Wildcats start away streak with win over Illawarra

Perth Wildcats have ticked the first box in their five-game away streak by beating Illawarra 81-76 in Wollongong today.

The Wildcats fought back from a horrible first quarter where they conceded 30 points to show their defensive class and experience.

Bryce Cotton was at his damaging best with 21 points, including 17 in the second half while LaMelo Ball again impressed for the Hawks. He had a double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds, while also throwing in seven assists.

The Wildcats needed to perform well given they face a tough travel schedule. They play in Brisbane on Friday night, then travel to New Zealand, Sydney and Adelaide before their next home match on November 17.

Cotton seized control during the third quarter. The NBL MVP scored 12 points, had four rebounds and one assist for the period to give his team a four-point lead heading into the final quarter.

Cotton, Terrico White and Nick Kay then closed out the game with 16 of their team’s 19 points in the last period.

The Hawks were undermanned after import Josh Boone sat out the game with a broken nose.

They then lost American star Aaron Brooks to a left leg injury late in the third quarter and he didn’t return.

Cotton said Perth’s experience stood out.

“It was a pretty ugly game,” Cotton said.

“The effort was there all game but we had some careless turnovers. Hats off to Illawarra. They played a hell of a game but I think we did a good job weathering the storm.

“The chemistry is there and considering the winning culture that we have and the experience, it really helps us in games like this.”

Kay scored 15 points and had seven rebounds, White finished with 14 points while Damian Martin had 10 rebounds.

Tim Coenraad top scored for Illawarra with 18 points but they couldn’t cover the absence of stars late.

The Hawks are now 1-5 while the Wildcats are continuing their strong start to the season to sit in second place with a 4-1 record.