Knight sworn to duty in Perth’s title quest

He may have been in Australia only a few weeks and suited up in just two matches, but NBA talent Brandon Knight knows the expectation that comes with playing for the Perth Wildcats.

The Wildcats have 10 Hungry Jack’s NBL championships to their name, but none since 2019-20, which is making the Red Army increasingly hungry for success.

In an interview with Nine’s Wide World of Sports, Knight explained why he and his side are embracing what comes with wearing the club’s red-and-black uniform.

“The Perth Wildcats have a very high standard, very strong history and legacy of championships,” Knight said.

“That’s going to be the standard: to win championships and to not drop the ball.

“We have a duty to the city, to the fans, and we want to represent that well.”

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At 34, Knight has achieved plenty in his career but isn’t content. Wanting to accomplish more is just one of the reasons he is still lacing them up.

“There’s a lot that comes with the journey, a lot of ups, a lot of downs,” he added.

“The people that continue to go, they love it, and they have a really good support system.

“My family, my wife, my kids, my parents have supported me throughout this entire journey.

“A lot of people see the player, but there’s a village behind the player that allows them to keep going.

“Love is definitely the root of why I’m still playing the game.”

While it’s still early in his Australian stint, the American guard has been impressed with the NBL and the wider hoops community in the country.

“Guys from all over the world, not just from the United States, are coming to this League because of the level of talent, and it’s very similar to the NBA and how it’s structured,” Knight said.

“I think the League is growing and it’s a beautiful thing to see.

“The Australian basketball culture here is very strong and creates a lot of great talent.

“We see that year after year with Australian guys getting drafted: top 10, number one, number two.”

Knight and his Wildcats will look to return to the winner’s circle on Friday night when they host Melbourne at RAC Arena from 9.30pm AEDT, live on ESPN.