‘I needed a new environment’: Cotton all in on Adelaide

Monday night was once again Bryce Cotton’s moment in the NBL limelight, after claiming his incredible sixth Andrew Gaze Trophy. It marked his first season away from the Perth Wildcats following a controversial exit.

In his acceptance speech, the three-time NBL champion didn’t shy away from reflecting on the move from Perth to the Adelaide 36ers, making it clear just how much the new environment has meant to him and his family.

“We play in one of the best leagues in the world outside the NBA, and going to a new team, a new environment, it's something I needed,” Cotton said on Monday night.

“The coaching staff, to the front office, and my teammates, everybody's amazing. They know how quiet I am, but once I get comfortable, I open up a little bit, and we've been vibing ever since.”

In comments that hinted at a new sense of comfort at his second NBL club, Cotton praised his experience in the ‘City of Churches’.

“This is the most I've ever talked to any of my teammates in a year in the NBL, while Mike (Wells), who I know from our time in Utah, was a big reason why I decided to come to Adelaide.

“Through thick and thin, and the high and lows, I’m rocking with you all.”

Cotton said he’s eager to build on this chapter over the next two seasons.

“Honestly, we like being in Adelaide,” he said.

“It's been amazing, because even if you take away the basketball, the city fits me and my family’s personalities.

“We don't really go out much. It's a laid-back city, and it's given us everything that we needed, including a breath of fresh air and meeting new people.

“I have no complaints at all, I love where I'm at.”

Adelaide’s quest for the 2025-26 Hungry Jack’s championship will continue on Tuesday, March 10. That Adelaide Entertainment Centre matchup will be against the winner of the Seeding Qualifier between South East Melbourne and Perth at John Cain Arena on Wednesday, March 4.

All NBL26 Finals matches are live on ESPN.