Perth Wildcats captain Jesse Wagstaff has paid tribute to point-guard Mitch Norton after his tenacious play late in tonight’s match helped to lift the team to victory over South East Melbourne Phoenix.

The Wildcats had given up a 20-point lead and were under pressure as the Phoenix charged home, but Norton repeatedly put his body on the line to inspire the team.

He won an offensive rebound which led to him being fouled in a heavy collision, then produced a key assist, before taking a heavy charge at the other end of the court.

Norton then had to defend Kyle Adnam as he took the shot to win the game and pressure the Phoenix co-captain into missing.

The Wildcats won 93-92 and Wagstaff said Norton’s contribution was pivotal.

“They were massive plays,” Wagstaff said.

“He does so many things well and that last charge call and the physicality – he just treats everything as inconsequential.

“He was phenomenal out there. That last defence on Adnam. If he hits that then they win the game. I thought he did a great job straight up to force a tough shot and that’s all you can do in that situation.

The Wildcats had plenty of contributors throughout the night. Bryce Cotton top scored with 28 points and constantly gave the Phoeni headaches, John Mooney continued his brilliant year with 16 points and 11 rebounds and Todd Blanchfield scored 19 points.

With injured stars Keifer Sykes (ankle) and Adam Gibson (calf) both watching from the sidelines, Adnam starred for the Phoenix with 28 points while Mitch Creek produced 19 points and eight rebounds.

Wagstaff said Perth’s experienced players showed how they can handle pressure.

Last night’s match was the first of Perth’s three games in five days. Their next match is against Brisbane on Friday.