The Alloyfold Canterbury Wildcats will go into night 3 of the Sal's NBL 18IN18 with a clear goal of ensuring they return to Christchurch with a 1-1 record following their first-up 51-66 loss to the ETCO Auckland Dream last night.
The chance to bounce-back comes fast in this year's unique competition and after a good night's rest for the players, and no doubt a few hours of reviewing game footage by the coaching staff, the Wildcats will like their chances against tonight's opposition - the Capital Swish.
An injury cloud still hovers over Lauryn Hippolite (calf) after she failed to take any part in last night's game, while Tessa Morrison will remain sidelined for the season with a knee injury.
One thing the Wildcats will be hoping for is an improved shooting performance after going at a lowly 26% (16-60) last night from the field, including just 11% (3-26) from the arc.
As for the Swish, they remain a mystery, but following a good showing at the recent Schick 3X3 Cup all teams will be wary of them.
The team from the Capital play hard and fast, so expect a physical up-tempo game.
THREE KEYS TO THE GAME
1. The Wildcats have to deliver the goods at the offensive end and shoot at a better clip. Another poor shooting display may prove costly again.
2. Speaking of shooting, the Swish were in great form at the Schick 3X3 Cup and can definitely land the long-range shots so look for that to be a strength.
3. Team depth. The early stages of the 18IN18 season have seen players tire quickly. Though players have had up to 10 months of training ahead of the season, there is nothing like the real thing and it will take a couple of games for players to adjust. Good depth and strong rotations could be the ingredient needed for wins.
WHAT: Sal's NBL 18IN18
WHERE: Pulman Arena, south Auckland
TIP-OFF: 7:30pm
COST: Adults $10 | Juniors U18 Free
PARKING: Free
