Wildcats confirm re-signing of rising star

The Perth Wildcats on Tuesday confirmed that Elijah Pepper has re-signed with the club on a new two-year deal.

Pepper, who will remain in Perth through to the end of the Hungry Jack’s NBL28 season, averaged 10.5 points, 3.4 rebounds and 1.6 assists per game, while shooting 40% from the field last campaign.

Wildcats coach John Rillie said Pepper’s commitment is an important step as the club continues to build its backcourt.

"It's great to have Pepp committing to the Wildcats for another couple of seasons,” Rillie said.

“He is a key piece to our squad as the staff continues to develop our youthful backcourt.

“His elite shot-making is his separator in this league as he continues to grow his all-around game."

Reflecting on his decision to remain in Perth, Elijah Pepper credited the connection with the Red Army and the direction of the group.

“There’s no better place to play in the NBL than in front of the Red Army, so to be staying in Perth and doing it for another two seasons means a lot,” Pepper said.

I’m excited by what we’re building and ready to continue competing for a championship.”

Pepper, who averaged 13.8 points, 2.3 rebounds and 1.5 assists across the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers with the Boomers, joins Kristian Doolittle, Jo Lual-Acuil Jr., Dylan Windler, Ben Henshall, Elijah Pepper, Jaron Rillie and Cameron Huefner at the Wildcats.

Perth General Manager of Basketball Operations and COO Danny Mills said securing Pepper was a priority for the club.

“Re-signing Elijah was a top priority for us,” Mills said.

“His growth last season was outstanding, he’s an elite competitor, and we believe his best basketball is still ahead of him.

“Locking him in for the next two years gives our program stability, leadership, and a player our fans genuinely connect with.”

>> Free Agency Tracker: Rolling updates, signings and reported moves