About this episode

John Rillie discusses the challenges and expectations of coaching the Perth Wildcats in the NBL.

Support Aussie Hoopla: We are doing everything we can to keep these podcasts going, but the costs to produce, host, and track down guests are adding up. If you enjoy the show and want to help keep it alive, you can support us in two ways: Buy a T shirt or Buy Me A Coffee Every contribution goes directly toward keeping aussiehoopla.com online and the podcast running. ---------- Perth Wildcats head coach John Rillie joins the podcast to discuss the pressure of coaching one of the NBL's most successful clubs, the expectations that come with the Red Army, and what he has been building since taking over in 2022. Host Dan Boyce chats with Rillie about Perth's recent semi-final exits, the scrutiny around the club, Bryce Cotton's departure, the growth of players like Ben Henshall and Elijah Pepper, and how the Wildcats are shaping their next championship contender. Topics include: Taking over the Perth Wildcats after the finals streak ended The pressure of coaching Perth Fan criticism and the 2023 backlash The Trevor Gleeson era and modern NBL expectations Bryce Cotton's final season and departure The Mason Jones situation and roster fit Developing Ben Henshall, Elijah Pepper and…

People in this episode

Host: Dan Boyce

Guest: John Rillie

Topics covered

• NBL27 roster changes
• coaching pressures
• fan expectations
• Bryce Cotton
• team development
• championship aspirations

Keywords

• NBL
• Perth Wildcats
• John Rillie
• Bryce Cotton
• coaching
• basketball
• fan pressure
• team development

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Perth Wildcats

More episodes of Aussie Hoopla NBL & NBA Podcast

• Rolan Roberts on Kings Titles, Dunk Contest Injury and Playing for Brian Goorjian and Trevor Gleeson · May 18, 2026 · 1h 6m

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Aussie Hoopla NBL & NBA Podcast podcast page.