Wagstaff to help bring back Perth's bite (Round 13 MSBL Preview)
Perth Redbacks will be hoping the return of Wildcats forward Jesse Wagstaff can help them to a pair of victories in round 13 of the men's State Basketball League.
Wagstaff, who was recently picked in the Australian Boomers squad, made his first appearance for the Redbacks last weekend as his side won one of its two games, but they'll be hoping his presence can carry them to much-needed wins against Southlands Boulevarde Willetton Tigers and Australian Central East Perth Eagles.
Perth sits in eighth spot with just a one-game lead over ninth-placed East Perth, so that match is vital for both sides' top eight chances.
Wagstaff will be up against fellow Wildcat Drew Williamson in that game, while Perth's match against defending champions and heated rivals Willetton will see him battle against Matt Knight.
The fifth-placed Tigers suffered a shock loss to Sun City Plumbing Geraldton Buccaneers last week and they'll be looking to get back on track with victories against Perth and ATD Stirling Senators.
But the Senators have climbed to sixth spot with three-straight wins, on the back of former NBL player Geordie Cullen's outstanding form, and will be a tough challenge for Willetton and Mandurah Magic.
SKILLED Goldfields Giants dropped to seventh spot with losses in two of their three games last weekend and they'll be desperate to turn things around with victory over Kalamunda Eastern Suns, who are just one game outside the top eight.
Geraldton also lost two of three one week ago and must beat top two side Cockburn Cougars to have any chance of rescuing their finals hopes.
Rockingham Flames upset Geraldton last week but will need to cause an even bigger shock to get back into finals calculations with victory against the third-placed Wanneroo Wolves, who have won five of their past six games.
League leaders Lakeside Lightning have won six straight and will be heavy favourites against Mandurah. But the Magic, who sit in 13th spot, are expected to welcome back star import Casey Crevelone and could cause an upset.
Total Connections Perry Lakes Hawks have won two-straight and should be too good for winless side Southwest Slammers in Bunbury on Saturday.
Article by Jacob Kagi
Photo by Marg Prior
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