The answer to the Perth Wildcats finals success is the 6 ‘7″ sharpshooter Dexter Kernich-Drew.

He has been limited in minutes this season. But he has shown undeniable leadership and maturity when he’s on the court. His 3-point shooting alone could make him a huge X factor for the finals.

Wildcats vs Hawks

The Perth Wildcats will play the Illawarra Hawks in the NBL finals. The Hawks rely on tough physical play to beat their opponents. This is when the length and athleticism of Dexter Kernich-Drew could prove to be the perfect weapon for the Wildcats.

Dexter Kernich-Drew

He was a quality role player for Washington State university. consistently improving his game every year and becoming a team orientated court leader.

Dexter Kernich-Drew has the athleticism and defensive intelligence to be a factor on the court and impact the game in any situation. He has shown to be a great role player and given his chance could shine as a starter in the NBL.

Learning from Adelaide’s mistake

The Adelaide 36ers paid the price for not playing their talented prospect Terrance Ferguson in the semi finals. The same could happen to the Perth Wildcats if they don’t utilise the talented Kernich-Drew in the finals against the Illawarra Hawks.

Dexter Kernich-Drew has the toughness and motor to match with the Hawks physical style of play and he could prove to be the difference if he is given his chance.

A future Boomer

The versatility of Dexter Kernich-Drew could make him an option for the Australian Boomers squad in the future. The Australian team is filled with young talent. The Boomers have guys like Ben Simmons and Thon Maker to build around and look primed for a medal at the next summer Olympics.

The team is filled with young stars and NBA veterans but they are in need of an athletic role player coming off the bench. This could be the perfect role for Dexter Kernich-Drew, who should be hitting his peak by the next Olympics.

Below is the Boomers’ future depth chart, showing an obvious need for depth at shooting guard and small forward for the team.

Australian Boomers Future Depth Chart



Dexter Kernich-Drew could be an exciting addition to the Boomers squad in the future. His incredible athleticism, length and 3-point shooting make him an international threat and a suitable role player.

By showing off his arsenal in these NBL finals, he’ll show the world what he’s capable of. The future is bright for Kernich-Drew, all he needs is his chance to shine.

A chance to make history

The Perth Wildcats are looking to win back to back championships after making a record breaking 32 finals series in a row. This is one of the biggest streaks in any sport in the world. Another championship would add to this historic legacy.

But the Illawarra Hawks are fighting for their second championship and will not go down without a fight.

Game 1 of the NBL finals starts at 4pm Sunday at Perth Arena. A must watch for all NBL fans.

by Didier Stobart – contributor

Follow on Twitter: @DidierStobart