The Sydney Kings got the early jump on the Wildcats but the home side got the last laugh at Perth Arena on Friday night.
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Perth wrapped up a top-two finish with the 95-81 triumph while the loss was Sydney's 21st from 26 games this season for the wooden spooners.
The Wildcats also created history by qualifying for the playoffs for the 30th straight season, a world record previously held by NHL franchise Boston Bruins.
After the Kings slipped out to an 11-0 lead, Wildcats coach Trevor Gleeson hooked his starting five and his bench players began the comeback mission.
By the end of the first quarter, the deficit was all but erased with Sydney clinging to a 23-22 advantage.
Perth maintained their momentum in the second period to lead 46-41 at the main break.
The already undermanned Kings went into the game without forwards Tom Garlepp (food poisoning) and Jeromie Hill (knee injury), forcing assistant coach Ben Knight to suit up again after filling in for three matches earlier in the season.
Despite an almost lone hand from star import Josh Childress, the Kings fell further behind in the third quarter to trail 71-59 heading into the final term.
Perth were never threatened in the closing 10 minutes as they improved to a 17-9 record and stay breathing down the necks of first-placed Melbourne going into the final round.
Childress finished with 30 points while Wildcats centre Tom Jervis enjoyed career highs with 23 points and 13 rebounds.
The teams renew acquaintances at Sydney Olympic Park Sports Centre on Wednesday night.