Wildcats Face Double Injury Setback; MVP Contender Announces Return — NBL Daily
The NBL landscape is heating up as teams approach the critical final stretch of the regular season. The Perth Wildcats are faced with significant injuries as they gear up to face the Sydney Kings. Meanwhile, Melbourne United will continue their playoff push without one of their key defensive players. Additionally, the South East Melbourne Phoenix has made a crucial move to maintain their competitive edge.
Perth Wildcats Face Injury Setback
The Perth Wildcats have achieved an impressive record, winning nine of their last ten games. With only two matches left against the Sydney Kings and Adelaide 36ers, the Wildcats must secure victories to keep their playoff hopes alive.
However, the team is hampered by injuries as they prepare for Sunday’s clash against the exceptionally strong Kings, who have won their last nine games.
Injuries to Key Players
- Ben Henshall: Suffered an ankle injury and will miss the Kings game.
- Dylan Windler: Has been ruled out due to a heel injury.
Both players will undergo evaluations throughout the week, with updates expected before their home game next Friday against the Adelaide 36ers.
Melbourne United Misses Defensive Anchor
Melbourne United currently sits fifth on the NBL ladder, but their playoff ambitions face a challenge as they enter the final matches of the regular season without their star defensive player. Shea Ili, a two-time NBL Defensive Player of the Year, is sidelined after a hamstring injury sustained during a game against the Cairns Taipans.
Impact of Ili’s Absence
Ili’s injury is a major setback as the team prepares for crucial upcoming games. He has had a turbulent season with recurring hamstring issues. As a result, development player Campbell Blogg will step into the lineup in his absence.
Head Coach Dean Vickerman is also recovering from appendicitis, leaving assistant coach Rhys Carter to lead the team. Melbourne faces a must-win game against the Illawarra Hawks on Sunday.
Nathan Sobey Re-signs with Phoenix
In other news, the South East Melbourne Phoenix is experiencing its best season to date. Veteran guard Nathan Sobey has been instrumental, averaging 21.9 points, along with 4.6 assists and 3.8 rebounds per game.
Sobey’s Career Year
- Points Per Game: 21.9
- Assists: 4.6
- Rebounds: 3.8
- Shooting Percentage: 43% from the field, 34.9% from three-point range
To cement their future success, the Phoenix has re-signed Sobey on a two-year contract, which includes a mutual option for the second season. The organization is also working to secure long-term deals for other key players as they strive for their first NBL championship.
