Wildcats score a weekend double

The Perth Wildcats made it two wins for the weekend as part of round 10 of the 2019-20 NBL season, defeating South East Melbourne Phoenix 108-98 at Melbourne Arena.

Having shocked ladder leaders Sydney on Friday night, the Wildcats started well with a 30-28 opening quarter before the home side hit back with a 23-16 point second term to lead by 5 at the half.

The game broke open in the third quarter as Perth made their move on the road, Clint Steindl continuing his purple patch from beyond the arc with support from Bryce Cotton and Terrico White, Nick Kay again dominant off the boards.

Leading by 3 at the final break the Wildcats blew the game wide open early in the last, putting up 31 points in the final quarter on their way to a 10 point win.

Having only scored eight points in the first half Bryce Cotton finished with 26 points for the winners, while White put up 19 points of his own after a purple patch in the last quarter.

Kay produced his second double double of the weekend with 18 points and 12 rebounds, while Steindl posted 15 points and made five of his eight shots from beyond the arc.

Phoenix captain Mitch Creek led all comers with 31 points, Ben Magden with 20 and John Roberson 19, quiet until late in the match.

Tai Wesley returned for his first match since round one and posted 15 points, getting through unscathed.

Perth remain in second on the table, the Phoenix dropping to fourth with a 6-6 win-loss record.

Round 10 concludes with matches between Sydney and Cairns (tonight) and New Zealand and Brisbane (tomorrow night).

PHOTO CREDIT: NBL website.