Three first-year rookies inspired the Parramatta Wildcats to a stunning 105-99 upset against the Bankstown Bruins in round 18 of the Waratah Australian Basketball League on Saturday night.

Guards Michael White, Dejan Marjanovic and Milos Prlic lifted the Wildcats against the highly ranked Bruins at Auburn Basketball Stadium.

The Wildcats were drastically short-handed, missing starting-five squad members Stephen Rafty (injured) and captain/coach Terrance Rone (overseas) but six of the seven team members reached double figures.

That highlighted the team effort which saw the home team repel countless forays by the Bruins, led by West Sydney Razorbacks NBL forward Clint Reed.

Parramatta centre Goran Veg was given the onerous task of guarding Reed and the two gave outstanding displays; both leading the point-scoring and rebounds for their respective teams.

The Wildcats now have a mathematical chance of reaching the play-offs and host the Maitland Mustangs this Saturday night at Auburn in the final game of the preliminary season.

Meanwhile, the Wildcat women were no match for the Bruins, playing bravely before succumbing 95-53.

The women were down to just six players and could not give away such a huge advantage to the leaders.