Adelaide 36ers Stun Perth Wildcats In NBL Playoff Upset

Adelaide 36ers Stun Perth Wildcats In NBL Playoff Upset...

The Adelaide 36ers pulled off a dramatic 94-88 victory over the Perth Wildcats in Game 1 of their NBL playoff series on Wednesday, March 9 (Australia time). The underdog 36ers overcame a 12-point deficit in front of a raucous home crowd at Adelaide Entertainment Centre.

American import Antonius Cleveland led the charge with 22 points, while Australian guard Mitch McCarron added 18 points and 7 assists. The Wildcats, who finished the regular season as favorites, struggled with turnovers and missed free throws down the stretch.

This matchup is trending in the U.S. due to growing American interest in the NBL, which has become a pipeline for NBA talent. Several U.S. college stars now choose Australia's top league over the G League for professional development.

The game aired live on ESPN2 in the U.S. during prime evening hours on March 9, exposing American audiences to the league's physical style of play. Social media reactions highlighted the intense atmosphere, with many comparing it to NCAA tournament energy.

Basketball analysts note this upset could impact the draft stock of Wildcats guard Bryce Cotton, a three-time NBL MVP who was held to just 15 points. The series continues Friday in Perth, with Game 3 scheduled for Sunday back in Adelaide if necessary.

Australian basketball has gained U.S. attention since LaMelo Ball's stint with the Illawarra Hawks in 2019-20. The NBL's Next Stars program has since developed draft picks like Josh Giddey (Thunder) and Dyson Daniels (Pelicans).

The 36ers' victory marks their first playoff win since 2018 and gives them crucial momentum in the best-of-three series. A win Friday would send them to their first NBL Grand Final since 2014, while the Wildcats must regroup to avoid an early exit.