NBL: Perth Wildcats won’t take Sydney Kings lightly

AT various points during a season you will be tested; whether that be from hectic schedules, injuries or other challenges that come out of nowhere.

There are also times a team will be scrutinised in the way they respond after disappointing results.

It was obvious our 21-point loss against Cairns was dismal, so to see our team respond the way it did against Illawarra with a 31-point victory at Perth Arena last Thursday was definitely pleasing.

There were great contributions across the board but the two that stood out were Bryce Cotton and JP Tokoto.

The standard to which Bryce holds himself is absurd and I mean that in a positive way.

It would be hard to argue his earlier games against Melbourne and Cairns were not of a high standard but he was extremely hard on himself and felt like he needed to improve.

That’s exactly what he did – he was exceptional and is one of those rare talents with whom it is a privilege to share the court.

Another special performance was that of Tokoto.

It’s easy to notice his offensive antics, but it is what he does on the defensive end that is special.

He came away from the game with six steals, while imposing himself on the contest with his pestering and deflections of opposition passes.

His hustle is becoming a huge force in our game plan.

We play Sydney at Perth Arena tomorrow night and expect a determined Kings outfit.

We need to again play four consistent quarters and walk away knowing we upheld the Perth Wildcats values.