'Championship or bust': Legend lays down challenge

Having won nine of their past 11 games, the Perth Wildcats appear to be peaking at the right time of the Hungry Jack’s NBL26 season.

That record is music to the ears of the Red Army, as they expect success, having won 10 championships in their 44-year existence.

One man who played a key role in four of those was American guard Ricky Grace, who explained that Perth’s fans are hungry for more success.

“It's been quite a while since we've won a championship over here [in Perth],” Grace said on Wednesday’s episode of NBL Now.

“I am getting a little testy and would definitely like to see us in the grand final. The Red Army over here, it's pretty much grand final to bust and having no been in one for a couple of years, we want to know why.

“[But we’re not satisfied with that] because I like championships, and I expect championships.

“When you're one of the most financially supported teams and are paying the most [for your roster], you should expect the best.”

While two-time Grand Final MVP Grace has confidence in John Rillie’s squad, he does harbour one reservation.

“I've been fortunate enough to see their [Perth] last few home games and [they’ve been] playing well,” he said.

“The only thing that worries me about the Wildcats is just those last two or three minutes of the game. Who's going to be their go-to guy? Who's gonna take over?

“They sort of have an equal opportunity offence in my point of view, and when the game's on the line, I'm still interested on who's going take control.”

The Wildcats host former Perth star Bryce Cotton and his 36ers on Friday night, in a crucial Round 22 fixture from 9.30pm AEDT, live on ESPN.