Five-Time MVP Scores 53 Points, Secures Adelaide Win in Thriller
The Adelaide 36ers celebrated a thrilling 91-86 victory over the Cairns Taipans on Saturday night, driven by a sensational performance from Bryce Cotton. The five-time MVP scored an astonishing 53 points, marking the second-best record in the NBL’s 40-minute era. Only last season, Cotton set a personal best with 59 points while playing for the Perth Wildcats.
Bryce Cotton Shines Bright in Historic Performance
Cotton’s 53-point game established a new benchmark for the 36ers, surpassing the 48 points scored by Darryl Pearce in 1988. After the game, Cotton expressed his desire for victory despite feeling exhausted. “I was so tired but I wanted to win,” he remarked.
NBL commentators praised Cotton’s remarkable ability to change the game. Joel Peterson emphasized Cotton’s unique talent, calling him “a one-man band” and highlighting his significance in the league. Derek Rucker suggested that Cotton could be on track to claim yet another MVP title as early as Round 5, emphasizing his extraordinary contributions to the team’s recent successes.
Key Highlights from the Game
- Cotton scored 53 points, including 16 free throws, successfully demonstrating his scoring versatility.
- Adelaide’s triumph came despite a competitive performance from Cairns, who were missing superstar Jack McVeigh.
- Flynn Cameron contributed valuable points, including several key three-pointers.
Cotton’s performance was particularly impressive given that it followed just two days after the Perth Wildcats released his replacement, Mason Jones. This decision stirred controversy, especially after Cotton’s dominating display against the Taipans, reaffirming his status in the league.
Cairns Taipans Face Challenges
Despite their efforts, the Taipans struggled with their shooting accuracy. They faced a frustrating night at the free-throw line, converting only 1 of 5 attempts in the first quarter. Furthermore, tensions on the court flared when Andrew Andrews was ejected for protesting a foul late in the game, resulting in a technical free throw for Adelaide.
Recent Developments in the NBL
The weekend also featured a remarkable performance by the South East Melbourne Phoenix. They recorded a 116-76 victory over the Illawarra Hawks, marking the largest win in franchise history. Coach Josh King highlighted the need for consistency after guiding his team to a significant offensive showing.
As the NBL season progresses, fans and analysts will closely watch Cotton’s journey and the ongoing narratives surrounding both the Adelaide 36ers and the Cairns Taipans. With Cotton’s exceptional talent and impact, the potential for more record-breaking performances remains high.
