Adelaide 36ers' basketball superstar Bryce Cotton has revealed the deeply personal struggles he battled during Wednesday night's emotional NBL clash against Illawarra, while still managing to deliver an impressive 31-point performance that led his team to victory.
Emotional Scenes on Court
Five-time MVP Bryce Cotton was seen wiping away tears during the game, with the American import later confirming he was dealing with significant personal issues beyond the nausea reported by club staff. The emotional scenes unfolded during Adelaide's 97-85 victory over the defending champions at their home court.
"I was dealing with a lot. I was able to channel my energy and focus on staying in the games and giving it all I got," Cotton revealed in an interview with SEN radio. "Last thing I wanted to do, despite what I was going through is come out (of the game) and we end up losing. That would have really bothered me."
Coach's Support Proves Pivotal
The turning point came when 36ers assistant coach Kerry Williams stepped in during a break in play between free throws, embracing the star guard and offering both emotional support and a prayer that moved Cotton to tears.
"I'm one of those guys when I'm struggling, and then you show me some support, that makes me almost more emotional," Cotton explained. "One of the coaches pulled me aside, and he said a quick prayer with me, and it just made me lose it all over again. It meant the world to me for him to pray for me in that moment."
Remarkable Performance Despite Adversity
Despite his early struggles and emotional state, Cotton finished with an impressive stat line: 31 points, 13 assists, and zero turnovers in 36 minutes of play. The American-born combo guard hit six three-pointers from ten attempts, showing his characteristic shooting prowess even while battling personal demons.
Adelaide coach Mike Wells joked about Cotton's performance despite his physical condition: "He just was a little nauseated. He must've been really sick, guys, you know what I mean? 36 minutes, zero turnovers, 13 assists, 31 points. He was really feeling sick."
The game also featured standout performances from other Sixers players, with Isaac Humphries contributing 22 points and nine rebounds, outshining his opposite number - three-time NBA champion JaVale McGee, who managed 12 points and 10 rebounds.
Cotton's combination with Humphries proved particularly valuable, with the guard dishing up three assists to the big man in the third quarter alone, including setting up a two-handed dunk through the lane.
The victory extended Illawarra's losing streak in Adelaide to seven consecutive games, dropping the Hawks to a 4-8 record as they continue their championship defence. Hawks guard Tyler Harvey acknowledged the team's struggles: "We've had a tough go this whole year and wins are so valuable."
In late drama, Sixers import Nick Rakocevic was ejected for leaving the bench and entering the court during a fracas between McGee and Zylan Cheatham, though by that point the result was already beyond doubt.
