Wildcats sign academy prospect

Thomas Gerovich has become the first Wildcats Academy graduate to earn a contract as a Perth Wildcats development player.

The 20-year-old, 200cm forward will join the team he supported growing up for the NBL25 season in a reward for his efforts at the Academy, NBL1 West competition and as a train-on player with the Wildcats.

Hard work was a common theme when describing the Willetton junior, with Wildcats head coach John Rillie looking forward to having Gerovich on his roster for the upcoming campaign.

“Any time you can reward someone for the hard work and effort they put into their craft, and Tom is just a great example of what someone has done with their basketball over the last few years and especially in my time here in Perth,” Rillie said.

“It’s easy to reward someone with the effort, attitude and mindset he has to all of this.

“I would call him an everyday guy, you know what you’re getting from him, whether it’s Monday, Friday, game day or you’re coming into the tough part of the season where you need someone to come in with a consistent work ethic.”

Gerovich, who received the good news from coach Rillie, said it was a “dream come true” to get his first contract at the Wildcats.

“It’s an amazing feeling,” he said.

“I’ve had a membership for most years so it’s a dream come true to get this opportunity with the Wildcats."

Gerovich spoke glowingly about his time with the Wildcats Academy under director Keegan Crawford’s tutelage.

“It was very beneficial, being around Wildcats people like Keegan Crawford and embracing the Wildcats’ culture,” he said.

“It definitely helped me feel more comfortable coming to Wildcats practice over the pre-season.”