In The Post – Pressure mounts on Wildcats

Catch up on all the latest headlines from around the basketball world in today’s edition of In the Post.

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Pressure mounts on Wildcats

The pressure is building on Perth Wildcats coach Scott Morrison, as the club fights to keep their 35-year finals streak on the line.

“If I lose my job they are paying me out for my salary for next season. If fans or the ownership want to send me packing, they can send me with my salary and good luck to the next guy,” Morrison said via the West Australian.

Cats’ hearts break for Law

Perth Wildcats superstar Vic Law has been ruled out for the season with an ankle injury.

“My heart goes out to Vic. I feel really bad because he’s had a great season and this is now going to delay his next thing whether it be Summer League or whatever. I feel really bad for him,” coach Scott Morrison said via the West Australian.

Goorjian weary of fresh bodies 

The Illawarra Hawks face a daunting road trip this round, facing the Wildcats in Perth tonight before travelling to Sydney to battle the Kings on Sunday. Coach Brian Goorjian admits he is looking at keeping his superstars fresh in this period before the finals.

“We're going to need to have our bench very much involved. It's an extreme circumstance in terms of travel and timing on games and while we want to win both games, it's important to have healthy bodies ready for playoffs,” Goorjian said via the Illawarra Mercury.

NBL experience key to Besson’s NBA draft declaration

New Zealand Breakers youngster Hugo Besson has declared for the NBA Draft, and he has explained how playing in the NBL has helped his development and preparation for the next step in his career.

“Playing for the Breakers and learning every day alongside ex-NBA players has transformed my game and given me the exposure I needed to head to the draft,” Besson said.

JackJumpers “delighted” with Magnay contract 

Tasmania JackJumpers CEO Simon Brookhouse says he is “delighted” with Will Magnay signing a two-year extension with the club.

“We are just delighted that Will has signed on for a further two seasons here in Tasmania. He’s a big body and an incredible athlete, and just a great young guy to have in our group,” Brookhouse said.

JLA worthy MVP finalist 

Melbourne coach Dean Vickerman says United star Jo Lual-Acuil Jr is a worthy MVP finalist, explaining how his versatility as a big man has been well recognised.

“It’s difficult for a big man in our league as well – there just hasn’t been that many MVPs come from the centre position. His versatility, being able to shoot the basketball, put it on the floor, defend, protect the rim, all the components of his game have lifted this year. It’s been well recognised,” Vickerman said via Newscorp.

Cadee wants strong Bullets finish

Brisbane Bullets leader Jason Cadee believes the club is solely focused on ending their campaign with a win against Cairns on Saturday night.

“A win to finish the season would be the ultimate goal but you just want to see everyone playing hard and putting their best foot forward because at the end of the day this is people‘s livelihood,” Cadee said via Fox Sports.

Phoenix hope to end on positive

South East Melbourne Phoenix import Brandon Ashley says the club wants to end a disappointing season on a positive note this weekend.

“We haven’t exactly had the best finish to the season, so I think at this point everybody just wants to end the season on a high note,” Ashley said via Newscorp.