David Duke Jr. Shines in Return; Kristian Doolittle Dominates for Wildcats

Perth Wildcats faced the Brisbane Bullets on Friday night, securing a commanding 94-75 victory at RAC Arena. The game marked the return of star player David Duke Jr., who had been sidelined due to an elbow injury since December 28.

David Duke Jr.’s Successful Comeback

Coach John Rillie expressed optimism about Duke’s performance, noting that he played 13 minutes off the bench. Duke scored nine points and grabbed four rebounds, showcasing his ability to regain confidence in his body after a lengthy absence.

Rillie commented on managing Duke’s return carefully, ensuring he didn’t overexert himself. “He was aggressive and assertive,” Rillie remarked, highlighting Duke’s improved ball handling and ability to drive to the basket during crucial moments.

Kristian Doolittle’s Dominance

Another standout from the game was Kristian Doolittle. He dominated the court with an impressive performance, scoring 28 points, along with seven rebounds and six assists. This performance follows his remarkable 32-point game against Cairns the previous week.

Rillie has previously championed Doolittle as a strong contender for the Defensive Player of the Year. “He has developed great confidence in his offensive capabilities,” Rillie noted. Doolittle has improved his mid-range game and is now evolving his three-point shooting, making him a multifaceted threat on the court.

Team Contributions and Player Updates

• Elijah Pepper contributed significantly with 20 points.
• Jo Lual-Acuil added 15 points and eight rebounds.
• For the Bullets, Hunter Maldonado led his team with 18 points, seven rebounds, and six assists.

Despite Duke’s return, the Wildcats faced a challenge with Ben Henshall injuring his ankle during training. His availability for the upcoming game against the Sydney Kings remains uncertain as he was seen limping on the sidelines.

Match Overview

The Wildcats initially overwhelmed the Bullets, building an early 18-2 lead. The game’s intensity reflected a competitive spirit, with Coach Darryl McDonald addressing a heated exchange involving player Terry Taylor during the first quarter. McDonald downplayed the incident, indicating it was merely a moment of frustration in the game.

With the playoffs approaching, Duke’s return and Doolittle’s consistent performance signal positive momentum for the Wildcats as they prepare for their next challenge.