36ers beat Wildcats 95–84 in front of record home crowd
Bryce Cotton once again led Adelaide to victory as the 36ers defeated the Perth Wildcats 95–84 in the latest edition of the Cotton Cup. The win came on Sunday afternoon at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre, where a record crowd of 10,041 fans witnessed a high-quality NBL clash.
Despite arriving with revenge on their minds, Perth failed to stop their former star from dominating.
Perth start strong but Adelaide respond
Earlier this month, the Wildcats had let an 18-point three-quarter-time lead slip against Adelaide. Therefore, they started aggressively this time and built a 14-point lead midway through the first quarter.
However, Adelaide soon found rhythm. Although the visitors led by nine points at quarter time, the 36ers lifted their intensity. As a result, they reduced the gap to 49–46 by halftime.
Cotton dominates decisive third quarter
After the break, Adelaide took full control. Cotton scored 10 of his game-high 36 points in the third quarter, driving the 36ers to a commanding 75–58 lead. Moreover, Adelaide finished the quarter on a 14–0 scoring run, which effectively turned the game.
The victory marked Adelaide’s 10th home win of the season, strengthening their position at the top of the NBL ladder.
Strong support cast for Adelaide
In addition to Cotton’s heroics, Flynn Cameron and Dejan Vasiljevic provided valuable support. Both players finished with 17 points, ensuring Adelaide maintained pressure throughout the final term.
Notably, Cotton signed a three-year deal with Adelaide earlier this year after spending nine seasons with Perth, adding extra edge to the rivalry.
Injury blow hurts Perth
Meanwhile, Perth suffered an early setback when David Duke Jr exited after just three minutes. The guard hyperextended his elbow during a rebound attempt and now faces a possible extended absence.
Although Kristian Doolittle led Perth with 18 points, six rebounds, and three assists, the Wildcats could not match Adelaide’s late surge.
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