Petrh Wildcats import Dylan Windler believes his undermanned team can take plenty of positives from their 21-point loss to Sydney on Saturday, saying the lessons they received against the reigning champions will be valuable for the rest of the season.
The Wildcats travelled to Sydney without import Kristian Doolittle (foot) and star centre Jo Lual-Acuil (calf) and were only seven points down with five minutes remaining.
Sydney dominated the rebounds and Torrey Craig’s NBA experience was on show as he produced 26 points and 12 rebounds.
But Windler said the Wildcats could take heart from the way they kept fighting.
“I think we rallied around the group we had. I think we competed in a large portion of the game,” Windler said.
“But I think we just had some lapses. On the offensive glass, they got a lot of extra possessions and hit some daggers in moments where I felt we were making a run. Then there were lapses defensively in transition.
“They were small things that took the wind out of sails when we were making a run. We were in the game for most of the game and had it pretty close in the fourth quarter with a chance to try to take the lead. But there were some lapses - mentally probably - and just getting out worked in certain spots.”
The Wildcats expected Doolittle to play despite hurting his foot on Thursday at training. His unavailability led to Jimmy Whitt playing coming into the team.
Whitt is Perth’s nominated Injury Replacement Player, but because he is American, he can only suit up when an import is unavailable.
The 29-year-old scored 15 points and was also handed the task of quelling Kendric Davis after he scored 16 points in the first half. Davis finished with 23 points.
Coach John Rillie said Whitt had shown plenty of professionalism and mental strength.
“When you’re in the position Jimmy is in, he gets rewarded because he shows up every day to practice,” he said.
“Up until Thursday night, he thought he was going to be in Perth. That shows the character and what he’s about. To have the mentality to be able to come in, be able to absorb that and produce the game he did. For me, it is how are you approaching Sunday. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday to give yourself success? He shows up every day and makes us a better team.”
Whitt made his NBL debut in the earlier rounds when the Wildcats were waiting for Brandon Knight to arrive in Australia. Knight moved into the starting five and spent nearly 29 minutes on court for 10 points and six assists.
Windler said he would continue to get better with every game.
“For sure. Obviously it’s only his second game but i think he’s getting more comfortable with the offence and what we’re about,” Windler said.
“He’s hitting his stride. He’s getting good practices in and I think he’s finding his way well with this group. He’ll be a big piece of what we’re doing.”