TYRONE THWAITES

April 14, 2014

Perth Wildcats championship winning captain Damian Martin would like to see out his career in WA after his team won its sixth National Basketball League title yesterday.

The Wildcats beat the Adelaide 36ers in Sunday’s championship decider 93-59. Martin today said he did not expect it to be his last grand final.

Winners: Redhage, Martin and Hire.

“I have been privileged to be a part of the Wildcats for five years and I have played in four grand finals,” Martin said.

“If we can continue this and try to win a few more off the back of this it would be fantastic.”

Although a number of Wildcats – including Martin – are out of contract this off-season, the captain expects the core group will remain.

“Hopefully it unfolds in a way that we stick together,” Martin said.

“I woke up today expecting there to be a phone call or message from the CEO [Nick Marvin] but we will see how the next couple of weeks go.

“I love Perth and I have made no secret about the fact this is my home now. If I could see my career out here I would be a very happy boy.”

Co vice-captain Greg Hire said having a stable team for the last few years was important to this season’s success.

“We obviously had a core group of guys and it’s a challenge to bring in a couple of imports and still gel so well,” Hire said.

“We have a fantastic culture here and Damo [Martin] has done a fantastic job as our leader this year.”

The Wildcats have won a record-breaking six NBL titles.

Co vice-captain Shawn Redhage said the latest victory did not feel real just yet.

“I think it does take a while to fully sink in because there are so many parts that go into it,” he said.

“Especially the hurt from the last two years coming just shy of winning it.”

Photo: Tyrone Thwaites