From Radford to Royalty: Jesse Wagstaff (Class of 2003) returns to the Canberra

Jesse went on to become a six-time NBL champion and captain of the Perth Wildcats, will take the floor in front of a hometown crowd for the first time in years. The announcement has already sparked a rush on tickets, with fans eager to see one of Canberra’s most decorated sporting exports back where his basketball journey began.

The Blitz will mark a new era for the AIS Arena, which has undergone major upgrades to its seating, lighting and amenities. The venue will host two marquee Wildcats games:

• Wednesday, 27 August – Perth Wildcats vs Melbourne United

• Friday, 29 August – Perth Wildcats vs Illawarra Hawks

Tickets have been priced to encourage families, starting from just $5 for children and $20 for adults, and are available through Ticketek.

Jesse has become one of the NBL’s most respected figures, notching up more than 500 games in the red of the Wildcats and signing on for an incredible 17th season. Known for his leadership, grit and knack for delivering clutch plays, the 38-year-old forward is still going strong at the highest level.

For many in Canberra, his return represents more than just a game, it’s a celebration of local talent making it on the national stage.

While the Blitz serves as the official NBL preseason competition, the atmosphere in Canberra is expected to be electric. With the refurbished AIS Arena ready to showcase top-level basketball once again, the spotlight will shine brightly on Wagstaff’s long-awaited return.

For Canberra fans, this is more than just sport, it’s history in the making.

Photo credit:

Danella Bevis / The West Australian, taken in March 2025, shortly after he re-signed with the Wildcats for his 17th season.

Picture by Keegan Carroll, Getty Images.