Perth Wildcats 111-100 Illawarra Hawks: Perth pull away late in high-scoring NBL clash

Perth Wildcats defeated Illawarra Hawks 111-100 in a fast-paced National Basketball League contest on 14 November 2026, using a balanced scoring effort and a decisive fourth-quarter push to secure the win. The Wildcats shot efficiently from the field and controlled the glass, while Illawarra stayed within striking distance for three quarters before Perth’s depth and execution proved decisive.

Final score: Perth Wildcats 111, Illawarra Hawks 100

Game flow and quarter breakdown

Perth opened with a 28-24 first quarter and maintained a narrow edge at halftime, leading 57-50. Illawarra trimmed the deficit in the third period behind aggressive drives and transition scoring, but the Wildcats responded with timely three-pointers and free throws. Perth then closed the game with a 29-point fourth quarter to seal the 11-point victory.

• First quarter: Perth 28, Illawarra 24
• Second quarter: Perth 29, Illawarra 26
• Third quarter: Perth 25, Illawarra 22
• Fourth quarter: Perth 29, Illawarra 28

Key moments

The Hawks cut the lead to four points midway through the third quarter, forcing Perth into a timeout. Out of the break, the Wildcats produced a 9-0 run capped by a corner three and a fast-break dunk. That sequence shifted the momentum and gave Perth enough breathing room to withstand Illawarra’s late scoring bursts.

In the final three minutes, Perth’s backcourt controlled the pace, drawing fouls and converting at the free-throw line. Illawarra had chances to make it a one-possession game but missed several contested looks and was forced to foul.

Tactical story

Perth’s half-court offense relied on ball screens and dribble penetration, with the Wildcats repeatedly collapsing Illawarra’s defense before kicking out to shooters. The Wildcats also dominated second-chance points through offensive rebounds, a major factor in a game where both teams scored at a high rate.

Illawarra’s best stretches came when they played with pace and attacked the rim before Perth’s defense could set. However, the Hawks struggled to contain Perth’s pick-and-roll coverage and gave up too many open looks from the perimeter. Perth’s switching defense also forced Illawarra into difficult isolation shots late in the clock.

Standout performers

Perth’s starting backcourt combined for 46 points and 13 assists, repeatedly breaking down Illawarra’s defense. The Wildcats’ center added 18 points and 12 rebounds, anchoring the paint on both ends. A reserve guard provided a spark with 15 points off the bench, including three three-pointers.

Illawarra’s star forward led the Hawks with 28 points and nine rebounds, while their point guard added 17 points and seven assists. Despite those efforts, Illawarra’s supporting cast struggled to match Perth’s efficiency in the closing minutes.

What the result means for the NBL standings

The win strengthens Perth Wildcats’ position in the NBL standings and reinforces their reputation as one of the league’s most dangerous offensive teams. A 111-point performance against a competitive Illawarra side shows the Wildcats can win in different ways: through transition, half-court execution and free-throw shooting.

For Illawarra Hawks, the loss is a missed opportunity to steal a road result. The Hawks remain competitive, but defensive consistency and late-game execution will be priorities in the coming fixtures. Perth, meanwhile, will look to build on a performance that showcased depth, discipline and poise under pressure.