Point of attack: Rising star's NBL27 focus

The ink has barely dried on his new two-year deal with the Perth Wildcats, but rising star Elijah Pepper has already outlined some of his goals for the Hungry Jack’s NBL27 Season.

Known as one of the competition’s top sharpshooters, the Australian Boomer is determined to expand his game and play point guard, which was an area of concern for the Wildcats at the end of NBL26, when needed next season.

“I want to challenge myself at being a better ball handler. I think that’s an area of growth I can take a big step in for NBL,” Pepper told The West Australian.

“So having those chances to improve and make that stronger is a big emphasis for me. I’m the primary ball-handler here.”

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

Pepper, who averaged career-highs in points (10.5), rebounds (3.4), assists (1.6) and steals (1.1) last season, knows this extra responsibility will come alongside the club’s import point guard, which he is excited about.

“I know they’re going to get a third import and that’s something you want,” Pepper said.

“I trust JR [coach John Rillie] and the coaching staff to make decisions, and when it comes down to it, whatever they think is best is how we will rock with it.”

Heading into the 2026-27 campaign, the Wildcats have Pepper, Kristian Doolittle, Jo Lual-Acuil Jr., Dylan Windler, Jesse Wagstaff, Ben Henshall, Jaron Rillie and Cameron Huefner on their roster.

‍Read the full story here >> Perth Wildcats star Elijah Pepper is keen to become an NBL point-guard after agreeing to new two-year contract