In a move that's sent shockwaves through the National Basketball League (NBL), three-time champion and five-time MVP Bryce Cotton is set to make a sensational return—this time, in Adelaide 36ers colours. After parting ways with the Perth Wildcats and all but confirming his departure from the league earlier this year, Cotton has done a complete about-face, inking a three-year deal with the Sixers that could reshape the balance of power in the NBL.
A Signing for the Ages
The announcement was confirmed by the Adelaide 36ers on Friday morning, following speculation that broke late Thursday night. Many fans and pundits had written off Cotton’s future in Australia after he declined a lucrative extension from Perth, the team he famously helped lead to three championships.
Cotton’s return is not just a boost for Adelaide—it could very well be one of the biggest signings in NBL history. Known for his clutch performances, unmatched scoring ability, and leadership on and off the court, the American guard brings both experience and flair to a Sixers squad eager to return to title contention.
From Perth Hero to Adelaide Star
Bryce Cotton has long been synonymous with the Perth Wildcats. Over nine electrifying seasons, he became a legend in WA, winning three NBL championships and being named league MVP five times. His ability to take over games and deliver in crucial moments earned him cult status among Wildcats fans, and he was widely considered the heart and soul of the team.
But after turning down a fresh deal with Perth earlier this year, it looked like Cotton was set to take his talents overseas. He was heavily linked with a Japanese club coached by his former Wildcats mentor, Trevor Gleeson. That move never materialised, and now, in a dramatic twist, Cotton will wear Adelaide’s blue, red and silver.
Adelaide’s Championship Intentions
This is more than just a star signing—it’s a declaration of intent. The 36ers, who returned to the NBL finals this year for the first time since 2018, are hungry to reclaim their place among the league’s elite. Adding a player of Cotton’s calibre is a massive step forward.
Adelaide’s general manager of basketball, Matt Weston, couldn’t hide his excitement.
“The opportunity to bring in one of the all-time greats of the NBL is hard to pass up,” Weston said. “Bryce has a history of winning championships, of personal and team excellence, and he's going to help us transform our culture and our standards to build a team capable of winning championships.”
Cotton’s presence will not only bolster Adelaide’s backcourt but also bring a championship mindset to a club looking to end its long title drought.
Replacing Kendric Davis with a Superstar
The timing of Cotton’s arrival is perfect, as the 36ers recently lost their American import Kendric Davis to the Sydney Kings. While Davis had a strong season, Cotton is a game-changer on a different level. His ability to score, defend and lead makes him arguably the most influential player in the league over the past decade.
Cotton will pair up with Aussie star Dejan Vasiljevic in the backcourt, forming what could be the most potent guard combination in the NBL. He also joins recent signings Flynn Cameron, Matt Kenyon, Isaac White, and Michael Harris, giving the Sixers a revamped and well-balanced roster.
A Season to Remember
If there were any doubts about whether Cotton still had it, last season erased them. At 32, he delivered one of the best campaigns of his career, including a jaw-dropping 59-point performance against the New Zealand Breakers—an NBL record. He finished the season as the league’s top scorer, averaging 28.1 points per game.
That kind of form not only shows that he’s still got plenty left in the tank, but also that he’s capable of lifting a team deep into the playoffs almost singlehandedly.
Familiar Faces and Fresh Goals
Adelaide’s new head coach Mike Wells has a long history with Cotton. The two first crossed paths during Cotton’s brief time in the NBA, when Wells was part of the Utah Jazz coaching staff. That prior relationship played a big role in getting the deal done.
“We’re really excited about who we’ve been able to bring in so far, but then to be able to bring in a guy like Bryce Cotton—it just takes our reshaping efforts to a new level,” Wells said.
“He brings a unique set of skills and talents to an already talented group, and we're excited by what the future looks like.”
With a coach who understands his game and a team built to support him, Cotton could well be poised for yet another MVP-calibre season.
What This Means for the NBL
Bryce Cotton’s return is not just good news for Adelaide—it’s great news for the entire NBL. One of the league’s biggest stars staying in Australia is a massive win in terms of fan engagement, media interest, and the overall quality of competition.
Cotton has been one of the NBL’s most marketable players, and his performances regularly draw large crowds and ratings. Whether you're a Sixers fan or not, his presence on the court guarantees must-watch basketball.
What’s Next?
Cotton is currently finishing a stint with Puerto Rican club Mets de Guaynabo, but he is expected to join Adelaide for pre-season training in the coming months. That gives him plenty of time to settle in, build chemistry with his new teammates, and gear up for what promises to be one of the most exciting NBL seasons in recent memory.
Final Word
Adelaide has made a statement. Signing Bryce Cotton is more than just a recruitment win—it’s a symbol that the 36ers are back in business. With a revitalised roster, an ambitious coach, and one of the league’s greatest ever players leading the charge, the Sixers are not just aiming for the playoffs—they’re gunning for a championship.
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Mitchell
Mitchell is a seasoned Ph.D. scholar with extensive expertise gained through years of rigorous research, publication, and teaching experience. He brings a wealth of knowledge and analytical skills to tackle complex academic challenges. His work is dedicated to delivering innovative solutions, advancing knowledge, and promoting academic excellence. Proficient in research methodology, data analysis, and scholarly writing, Mitchell has contributed to peer-reviewed journals and mentored students to achieve academic success.
