Star Perth Wildcats forward Nick Kay says his team can't afford to simply match last season's form if they are to successfully defend their NBL title.
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The Wildcats beat Melbourne United 3-1 in last season's grand final, and have retained most of that championship-winning roster.
But with the quality of players in the NBL rising dramatically this season, the Wildcats face a huge challenge to defend their crown.
Melbourne United start the season as hot title favourites.
Their roster boasts the likes of Shawn Long, Melo Trimble, Casey Prather, and Chris Goulding.
The star-studded Sydney Kings - featuring Andrew Bogut, Casper Ware, Didi Louzada, Kevin Lisch, and Brad Newley - are also expected to fare well.
Kay played a starring role at the recent World Cup in China, and the Wildcats will need a big season from him to be successful.
A huge amount of responsibility will also fall on the shoulders of Bryce Cotton, Terrico White, Damian Martin, and new import Dario Hunt.
Kay says the players are well aware that they need to improve on last season's hot form if they are to take home the title.
"If we stay the same as we were last year, chances are we probably won't win it again," Kay said.
"So it's about getting better each and every year. A lot of the guys are putting the work in to prove they have got better."
The Wildcats open their season against Melbourne United at Perth Arena on Saturday.
That game will give the Wildcats an early indication of where they sit in the pecking order.
"They're a very star-studded line-up aren't they," Kay said of United.
"But in saying that, they were star-studded last year as well, and I think our chemistry was a huge factor in the reason we won it last year.
"I think that's one of the great things the Wildcats do - the emphasis on scouts, and the buy-in from guys and that mateship. Having your mates back and playing for each other."
The loss of centre Angust Brandt was a huge blow to the Wildcats.
But Kay has faith in 30-year-old Hunt, a 206cm American who has played in France, Italy, and Belgium during his journeyman career.
"The way he battles and the way he plays and competes on every possession is the Wildcats way," Kay said of the undersized centre.
Grand final MVP White (wrist) and guard Mitch Norton (groin) are expected to be fit for the start of the season.
Australian Associated Press
