The Perth Wildcats have secured a thrilling 94-87 victory over the Adelaide 36ers in a highly anticipated NBL clash that marked Bryce Cotton's first appearance against his former team. The Sunday afternoon game saw John Rillie's squad mount an impressive fourth-quarter comeback to claim the win.
Cotton's Emotional Return to Perth
Bryce Cotton, the five-time NBL MVP, returned to Perth for the first time since leaving the Wildcats, creating an electric atmosphere at the venue. A record-breaking crowd of 10,029 fans witnessed the emotional reunion, with Wildcats players sharing warm greetings with their former teammate during pre-game preparations.
Despite the friendly exchanges before tip-off, the Wildcats implemented a strategic defensive plan to contain their former star. David Duke junior started the game with the primary assignment of guarding Cotton, while the team frequently deployed double-teams and rotated defenders including Jaron Rillie and Sunday Dech throughout the contest.
Game Highlights and Key Performances
Cotton delivered an impressive individual performance, scoring 23 points while contributing seven assists, five rebounds, and three steals. The shooting guard made seven three-pointers from 11 attempts, including the 800th of his NBL career during the second quarter.
The Wildcats demonstrated excellent team balance with multiple players stepping up offensively. Dylan Windler led the scoring with 18 points and 12 rebounds, while David Duke and Kristian Doolittle each contributed 16 points. Jo Lual-Acuil junior added 13 points to the winning effort.
Perth dominated the offensive boards with 13 rebounds in the first half alone, applying constant pressure on Adelaide's defense throughout the game.
Fourth Quarter Comeback Seals Victory
The game reached its climax in the final period when Cotton appeared to take control, hitting two quick three-pointers to give Adelaide a six-point lead early in the quarter. However, the Wildcats responded with a 14-2 scoring run to establish their own six-point advantage.
Adelaide had one final opportunity to tie the game when Cotton found Isaac White for a three-point attempt, but the shot rattled out, allowing Perth to secure the victory in the closing moments.
The Wildcats' defensive strategy proved particularly effective in limiting Cotton's opportunities at the free-throw line, where he didn't attempt a single shot throughout the entire game.
