Wildcats secure young guns for NBL26

The Perth Wildcats have locked in Elijah Pepper and Tom Gerovich for NBL26, with both club options were taken on the local young guns. 

Pepper impressed in his debut season in NBL25, becoming a key player in multiple appearances throughout the campaign - including a season-high 18 points against the Sydney Kings at the start of the year. The 23-year-old continued his double-digit performance in 11 other outings. 

Due to injuries to big names like Bryce Cotton, Tai Webster and Dylan Windler at times, Pepper stepped up and earned himself some starting five positions. 

"We’re excited about the development of both of these guys heading into their second season in the NBL,” Wildcats General Manager of Basketball Operations Danny Mills said.

"Elijah made the most of his opportunities in NBL25 and had some really impactful games off the bench.

"We expect him to build on his impressive debut season at the Wildcats and push for more minutes."

Gerovich, a local WA talent made a name for himself as he was brought on as a Development Player for the club, impressing Mills with his off-court work ethic. 

The 20-year-old made two appearances in NBL25. 

“Tom’s work ethic on the practice court really stood out after he joined our program last off-season," Mills said. 

“He’s still only 20 years old and we believe he’ll keep improving with another NBL pre-season under his belt.”

The club will continue to focus on completing its roster with the opening of the free agency period on Friday, April 4.