The Wildcats were on a high after beating the Phoenix 106-75 last Thursday.

But the tables were turned just three days later when Perth slumped to a shock 96-71 defeat.

The 56-point turnaround didn't go down well with Gleeson, who bemoaned his team's lack of discipline and described their defensive display as horrendous.

"He certainly had a lot to say to a lot of guys, and rightfully so," Mooney said.

"We took it like men, listened to what he said, and tried to implement what he said in practice the last few days.

"It was a poor effort from all the guys. We didn't follow the game plan the coaches have for us.

"We're trying to flush this last loss, learn from it, and move forward."

Sunday's heavy loss left the Wildcats with a 2-3 record.

Four of those games have come against the Phoenix, with the other one a 75-71 loss to ladder leaders Melbourne United on February 7.

Melbourne United have a perfect 6-0 record with the Wildcats aiming to be the first team to knock them off this year when they face off on Saturday.

The match will mark the first day of the month-long NBL Cup in Victoria, although a recent COVID-19 breakout has thrown plans up in the air.

Mooney is confident the Wildcats will rebound strongly from their flop against the Phoenix.

"We're 2-3, so we have a lot of room for growth. But nowhere near panic levels," he said.

"I think we're playing at a high level. With a couple of minor tweaks, here or there, we can be a lot better."

Mooney has enjoyed a stunning start to his NBL career, with the American big man averaging 16.8 points and 11.4 rebounds per game.

The 23-year-old has posted a double-double in four of his five games, with his hot form covering for the off-season loss of Nick Kay.

Australian Associated Press