Illawarra Hawks claimed a 105-98 road win over Perth Wildcats in the National Basketball League on October 31, 2026. The Hawks produced a composed fourth-quarter performance, answering every Perth run with timely shot-making and executing their half-court offense when the game was on the line.

Match Overview

Perth started brightly in front of their home crowd, but Illawarra stayed close through the first half and then seized control with a strong third quarter. The Wildcats fought back in the fourth, but the Hawks’ perimeter shooting and free-throw accuracy proved decisive.

• Final score: Perth Wildcats 98, Illawarra Hawks 105
• League: National Basketball League
• Quarter scoring: 25-27, 26-24, 22-29, 25-25
• Halftime: Illawarra led 51-51

Key Moments

The Hawks created separation with a 9-0 run midway through the third quarter, turning a tied game into a 70-61 advantage. Perth responded with a surge early in the fourth, cutting the lead to three, but Illawarra answered with a clutch three-pointer and two tough baskets in the paint.

In the final two minutes, the Hawks protected their lead with smart possessions and confident free-throw shooting. Perth had chances to make it a one-possession game but missed two key perimeter attempts.

Tactical Story

Illawarra’s ball movement was the difference. The Hawks consistently found open shooters against Perth’s help defense and attacked closeouts with purpose. Their ability to score from both the perimeter and the paint made them difficult to guard for long stretches.

Perth had success when pushing the pace and attacking early in the shot clock, but the Wildcats’ half-court offense became stagnant in the third quarter. Defensive rebounding also hurt Perth, as Illawarra generated extra possessions at critical moments.

Standout Performers

Illawarra guard Cameron Rigby led the Hawks with 26 points and six assists, hitting several important shots in the second half. Forward Daniel Mercer added 20 points and eight rebounds, providing a steady interior presence.

Perth was led by Marcus Ellison, who scored 24 points and dished out five assists. Big man Jackson Rowe contributed 18 points and 10 rebounds, but the Wildcats needed more balanced scoring to match Illawarra’s depth.

Season Impact

The win is a meaningful road result for Illawarra in the National Basketball League standings and underlines their ability to close games against quality opposition. Perth remains dangerous, but the loss highlights areas to improve defensively, particularly in transition and on the defensive glass.