Doolittle rewarded with new deal

Popular Perth import Kristian Doolittle will remain a Wildcat in NBL25, signing a one-year extension with John Rillie’s side.

Doolittle played 29 games for the Wildcats across their NBL24 campaign, including all three Playoff games against the Tasmania JackJumpers. He averaged 9.0 points and 6.7 rebounds per contest, but established himself as one of the most dangerous multi-level scorers and on-ball defenders in the NBL.

He arrived in Perth following a stint with Japanese third division side Iwate Big Bulls, with whom he won he won a championship with. Prior to that he played for Israeli side Hapoel Eilat, G-League side Canton and Puerto Rican side Bayamon.

Doolittle is excited to return for a second season at the Wildcats and feels there’s “unfinished business” after falling one win short of featuring in the Championship Series.

“I’m excited for the opportunity to return to the Wildcats for NBL25, as we look to go a step closer to winning an 11th NBL Championship,” Doolittle said.

“I really enjoyed my first season with the club under coach John Rillie and playing in front of the Red Army.

“I feel like this group is building towards something special and there’s definitely some unfinished business after falling short in the semi-final series.”

Wildcats General Manager of Basketball Danny Mills described Doolittle as the ultimate professional and an integral part of the group.

“We’re excited to be able to agree to terms with Kristian for next season after what was a very productive year on both ends of the court,” Mills said.

“Kristian is the ultimate professional, on and off the court, and he quickly became an integral part of our group.

“It didn’t take Kristian long to showcase his versatility on offence and the ability to defend multiple positions and be a lock-down defender in this league, and we look forward to the experience and impact he’ll bring next season.”