Big year, big dreams: Henshall locked on success

The Perth Wildcats are stepping into a new era with confidence, bolstered by a strong returning core that includes rising local star Ben Henshall, who re-signed just two months ago.

"I definitely wanted it to be Perth. There were definitely good offers around the league, but my last two years, I'm comfortable around these guys," he told basketball.com.au.

"(John Rillie) is a great coach and he gets the best out of me. Also, the guys that were returning, I loved playing with them, in Do (Kristian Doolittle) and Dyl (Dylan Windler), they're two great imports in the league.

After last season wrapped up, Henshall travelled to the USA to prepare for the NBA Draft, taking part in the combine while weighing up whether to keep his name in contention.

During that time, the 21-year-old also explored college eligibility, entertaining significant offers under the new NIL scheme.

Ultimately, he chose to refocus on the NBL and turned down several lucrative opportunities from rival clubs.

"I signed pretty late, so seeing the roster unfold, it was just something I wanted to be a part of,” Henshall said.

"Being around it last year and the year before, I know exactly what I'm coming into, so I think this is going to be a big year for me.

"This next year's the last year I can get drafted, so hopefully we can come away with a championship for Perth, and then hopefully my dreams can come true."

Read the full story here >> Ben Henshall: Why it was always the Perth Wildcats