Captain Fantastic Continues on for Perth

Perth captain Jesse Wagstaff will play his 15th season in Wildcats colours in NBL24, after agreeing to a one-year contract extension with the club.

The 37-year-old was named as the NBL’s Rookie of the Year in 2010, and over the course of his 446 games in the competition – all of which have come with Perth – he has become one of the most decorated players in the League's history.

The Canberra-born forward has played in six title-winning sides, from his rookie season in 2010, to Perth’s most recent championship in 2020. In addition to those championships, he has played a part in a further three Championships Series’ defeats.

He is currently the second longest-tenured player in the history of the club, only behind club legend Ricky Grace.

"It's super exciting," Wagstaff said. "The Wildcats are obviously a club I know well and a club I've got great memories of. Hopefully we can create some more good memories this year.

"I still feel pretty good mentally and physically, I still feel like I'm contributing on and off the court and, to be honest, it's one of the best jobs in the world and a phenomenal opportunity.

"I'm elated to have Jesse return for his 15th season with the Wildcats," Perth head coach John Rillie added.

"Besides his own on-court play, having him around the younger members of the roster will be invaluable. 

"On the floor, his versatility and approach to the game brings a spirit in a way very few players can command."

Wagstaff, who was named captain of the side following the retirement of club legend Damian Martin, was also named as the NBL Sixth Man of the Year in 2012 and was a member of the gold medal-winning Boomers side of the 2018 Commonwealth Games.

The re-commitment of Wagstaff follows the recruitment of Keanu Pinder, Hyrum Harris, David Okwera, Ben Henshall and Next Star Alexandre Sarr for NBL24.