Technology entrepreneur Mark Arena announced as new Perth Wildcats majority owner

Western Australian businessman Mark Arena has been revealed as the new majority owner of the NBL’s Perth Wildcats.

Arena, who resides in Perth after an international career in technology, has purchased the 10-time NBL champions from Sports Entertainment Group Ltd (SEG) which will become minority shareholders.

Arena, who apparently plans to increase his ownership stake over future years, says he will bring a Western Australia-first mentality to the Wildcats, taking inspiration from long-time and highly-respected former owner Jack Bendat who turned the club into a powerhouse of the competition.

Speaking about the acquisition, Arena advised “I’ve absolutely loved this team for as long as I can remember and I’m super excited to get started.

“I see huge potential for both basketball and for the city of Perth with the return of local ownership, and I feel strongly that we’ll be a Club that will be ‘Western Australia first’ in our intent.”

Arena (pictured) says he wants to use his business acumen and technical skill set to create greater fan experiences, cement the team’s role as a dominant force within Australian basketball and showcase both the team and the city of Perth on a global stage.

He went on to say “I want to build upon the legacy of the strong management this club has enjoyed - but add my own expertise to strengthen the Wildcats' commercial potential and community connection.

“Jack Bendat and those who came before and after him cemented the Wildcats as a loved team within the WA community.

“Hutchy (SEG Chief Executive Craig Hutchison) brought the influence of a media empire to broaden the reach of the team.

“I want to maintain both those elements but capitalise on my own technology and innovation skills to create a richer engagement between this team and its members, sponsors, the city of Perth, and the basketball community both here and internationally.”