Bryce Cotton felt the love from fans in his return to WA.
UPDATE: In a heartwarming scene, Bryce Cotton received a hero’s welcome from Perth Wildcats fans during his return to RAC Arena on November 4, 2023. The emotional tribute celebrated Cotton’s illustrious career, where he earned five NBL MVP awards over nine seasons with the Wildcats.
The atmosphere was electric as a 45-second tribute video played on the big screen, showcasing Cotton’s incredible moments while accompanied by heartfelt messages from coach John Rillie, captain Jesse Wagstaff, NBL legend Andrew Gaze, and former Wildcat Eric Watterson. As Cotton made his way onto the court, fans erupted into a standing ovation, chanting “MVP, MVP, MVP” in unison.
Cotton, visibly moved, acknowledged the crowd, biting on his shirt collar as he took in the moment. The arena was filled to capacity, with emotions running high, marking his first game back at RAC Arena since departing the Wildcats at the end of last season.
Before the game, Cotton arrived at the arena at 12:45 PM for his pre-game warm-up. He greeted familiar faces, including former captain Damian Martin, and spent 19 minutes on the court preparing for the match, taking shots and connecting with fans. Following warm-ups, he dedicated time to taking selfies and signing autographs, showcasing his appreciation for the support.
This match was significant not just for Cotton but for the fans who consider him a legend. His transition to wearing the jersey of the opposing team, the Adelaide 36ers, added complexity to the day. While his previous game against the Wildcats in South Australia had its own build-up, it paled in comparison to the emotional weight of this moment in front of the Red Army.
As the tribute concluded, all eyes turned to the game itself, with anticipation building around Cotton’s potential to craft another remarkable chapter in his career. In an electrifying performance, he scored 23 points, including seven three-pointers and seven assists, proving his enduring talent and ability to shine even in a new uniform.
Fans and commentators alike will be watching closely to see how Cotton continues to evolve in his career following this poignant return. The energy in RAC Arena was palpable, making it clear that the bond between Cotton and the Wildcats community remains strong.
Expect more updates on Cotton’s journey as he navigates his new role and continues to leave an impact on the court.
