In a performance that will be etched into NBL folklore, superstar guard Bryce Cotton delivered a masterclass to propel the Adelaide 36ers to a miraculous 95-94 victory over the Perth Wildcats on Sunday, overturning a massive 21-point deficit in front of a stunned record crowd at RAC Arena.
Cotton's Emotional Return Sparks Epic Contest
The stage was set for a dramatic homecoming as Bryce Cotton returned to Perth for the first time since his off-season move, facing the club where he built his legendary status. A regular-season attendance record of 13,661 fans packed the venue, creating an electric atmosphere filled with mixed emotions for the three-time MVP.
Cotton, guarded closely by David Duke Jr., started cautiously, not attempting his first shot until nearly four minutes had elapsed. However, he quickly stamped his authority on the game. The crowd's respect for their former hero was palpable; when he went to the free-throw line after his first basket, the customary boos were replaced by conflicted noise, as fans grappled with the desire to support their team without disrespecting the champion.
Wildcats Dominate Before Adelaide's Unthinkable Rally
For three quarters, the Perth Wildcats appeared in complete control. Led by Kristian Doolittle, who finished with 10 points, six rebounds, and three assists by halftime, the home side built a commanding 50-40 lead at the main break. They then exploded in the third term, stretching their advantage to a seemingly insurmountable 21 points.
Adelaide's hopes rested squarely on Cotton's shoulders. While he scored eight points in the third, the mountain looked too high to climb, especially trailing by 18 points at the start of the final quarter—a period that was once famously "Cotton's time" in Perth.
The Final Quarter Miracle Unfolds
Displaying the heart of a champion, the 36ers refused to surrender. They steadily chipped away at the lead, closing to within 16 points with just over four minutes remaining. Then, Bryce Cotton took over in the clutch, just as he had done so many times for the Wildcats.
He drained a crucial three-pointer to cut the margin to four points, then calmly sank three consecutive free throws—including one from a technical foul—to bring Adelaide within a single point with 38 seconds on the clock. The comeback was completed when Flynn Cameron drove for a lay-up with 16 seconds left, giving Adelaide their first lead of the game when it mattered most.
Perth had one final chance, but Kristian Doolittle's contested long-range attempt missed its mark, sealing a remarkable one-point victory for the visiting 36ers. Cotton finished with a superb double-double of 21 points and 12 assists, proving instrumental in the historic turnaround.
A Victory Forged in Resilience
This victory was more than just a win on the road; it was a statement of resilience from the Adelaide 36ers and a breathtaking individual showcase from Bryce Cotton. His ability to lift his teammates was evident throughout, particularly in the second quarter where he dished out five assists to feed big man Isaac Humphries, who scored 14 points in that term alone.
The result sends shockwaves through the NBL and serves as a potent reminder of Cotton's unparalleled ability to decide games in the dying moments, even when wearing unfamiliar colours in a once-familiar arena.
