NBL: Perth Wildcats season review

Winning an NBL Championship takes guts, determination and whole lot of teamwork. Accomplishing the ultimate goal and recording the franchise's 30th straight playoffs appearance culminates into being a phenomenal season for the #RedArmy.

WHAT WENT WELL

The Wildcats timed their run perfectly for the playoffs and eventual Grand Final series. Taking on a determined Illawarra Hawks outfit in the first round was a great test, and although it took three games to dispose of the Hawks, Perth were always in control of the series.

After the first 2 games of the Grand Final series going down to the wire, Perth never looked in doubt in game 3. They demolished New Zealand by 23 points and were crowned 2015/16 NBL Champions.

Import Casey Prather was a great addition to the team and quickly became a fan favourite with his energetic play and massive dunks. AJ Ogilvy didn't stand a chance.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3v0h5v79mb0

Jermaine Beal had another great season for the Wildcats, highlighted by his record-breaking 40-point outing against Melbourne in December. Beal sank 10 three-pointers on the night as Perth dismantled Melbourne 113-83.

WHAT WENT WRONG

By no means did the Wildcats have it all their way this season. At times throughout the regular season they struggled to play team basketball and lost games because of this.

Somewhat surprisingly, the longest win-streak Perth managed over the course of the season was only 4 games. With some new faces on the roster it took time for Perth to figure it all out, but when they did it was clear they were the best team in the country.

TEAM MVP

Who other than the defensive dynamo Damian Martin? Being named Finals MVP was reward for the veteran guard that never takes a backward step. With Martin leading the charge, Perth rallied behind him and were always going to be near impossible to beat at home in a game 3.

Martin is the type of player every team wants and needs when they find themselves in a do-or-die game. He is a leader of men and his play inspires those around him to lift and follow him.

OVERALL GRADE

Perth fans couldn't ask for much more from their team. Winning it all constitutes at least an A in my book. Couple that with the fact that it was their 30th playoff appearance in a row, that makes it an A+ season in my book.