Kristian Doolittle Secures Perth Wildcats MVP Honour After Outstanding NBL Campaign
In a momentous celebration, Perth Wildcats import Kristian Doolittle has etched his name into the annals of club history by capturing the prestigious Gordon Ellis Medal as the team's Most Valuable Player. This accolade follows a remarkable season where Doolittle's performance on the court was nothing short of exceptional, solidifying his status as a key figure for the Wildcats.
A Season of Excellence and Leadership
Entering the awards dinner as the clear favourite, Doolittle's victory was anticipated after his selection to the All-NBL First Team, a recognition bestowed by coaches, captains, and media based on their assessments of the season. However, the Wildcats' MVP award is uniquely determined through votes cast after every game, highlighting his consistent impact throughout the campaign. With Bryce Cotton's departure after seven MVP wins since 2017, the Wildcats needed a new star to emerge, and Doolittle rose to the occasion with aplomb.
Having signed a three-year contract at the end of the previous season, Doolittle committed to becoming a cornerstone of the franchise. His superb season statistics speak volumes: he averaged 16.6 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game. Demonstrating versatility, he split his duties between guarding the opposition's top players, occasionally serving as point guard, providing crucial rebounding presence, and stepping up as the primary scorer when needed.
Defensive Prowess and Team Recognition
Doolittle's defensive skills were also in the spotlight, earning him the Wildcats' Best Defensive Player award. His nominations for the NBL MVP and Defensive Player of the Year further underscore his all-around contributions to the team's success. Beyond individual accolades, the Wildcats celebrated other key players for their roles in a strong season.
Captain Jesse Wagstaff, set to turn 40 in April, received the Eric Watterson Medal as the Player's Player, a testament to his outstanding leadership and on-court brilliance. Coming off the bench, Wagstaff made critical plays, elevated his teammates' performance, and provided stability during high-pressure moments. His season highlights included a rare slam dunk and winning the Paul Rogers Medal in the final home and away game for his standout performance against Adelaide.
Rising Stars and Hall of Fame Induction
David Okwera was honoured as the Most Improved Player, with his court time doubling to 12 minutes per game this season. His aggression, rebounding, and scoring ability made him a pivotal player in his fifth NBL year, often shifting momentum at key junctures. Okwera began his career at Melbourne United before returning to his home state of Western Australia ahead of the 2023-24 season to maximise his potential.
Development Player Tom Gerovich was awarded the Coaches' Award, recognising his growth and dedication. Additionally, the club inducted former star Martin Cattalini into the Hall of Fame, celebrating his legacy that includes two championships and representation of Australia at the Olympics.
This awards night not only highlighted individual achievements but also showcased the depth and talent within the Perth Wildcats roster, setting a promising tone for future seasons as they build on this success.
