In a performance that will go down in NBL history, Bryce Cotton shattered the league’s modern-era scoring record, pouring in an astonishing 59 points to propel the Perth Wildcats to a thrilling 123-112 victory over the New Zealand Breakers on Sunday. The four-time league MVP put on a show for the ages in front of a season-best crowd of 12,505 at RAC Arena, leaving fans and teammates alike in awe of his offensive brilliance.
A Quarter-by-Quarter Masterclass
Cotton wasted no time asserting his dominance, exploding for 20 points in the opening quarter alone. He followed that up with 11 in the second, 17 in the third, and 11 more in the fourth, showcasing his ability to score from all areas of the court. The Wildcats’ superstar shot a blistering 18-of-28 from the field, including 7-of-15 from beyond the arc, while also converting 16-of-17 from the free-throw line.
Rewriting the Record Books
With his epic performance, Cotton surpassed the previous NBL record of 51 points, set just two weeks ago by Brisbane import James Batemon, coincidentally also against the Wildcats. He also eclipsed the Perth club record of 57 points, held by James Crawford since 1987. Cotton’s 59-point outburst fell just short of the all-time NBL record of 63 points, set by Reg Biddings in 1981 when games were 48 minutes long.
“It was pretty surreal,” Cotton said in a postgame interview with former teammate Damian Martin. “That month I was out [with a rib injury] felt like a long time, so it just feels good to get my legs back under me. This is one for the books, for sure.”
Breakers’ Valiant Effort Overshadowed by Injuries
Lost in the hoopla surrounding Cotton’s historic night was an equally impressive performance by Breakers point guard Parker Jackson-Cartwright, who matched his career-high with 34 points and dished out 10 assists. However, New Zealand’s efforts were hampered by injuries to two key players. Towering 229cm center Tacko Fall, playing in just his second NBL game, exited in the second quarter with a left knee injury, while forward Dane Pineau sustained a suspected meniscus injury to his left knee in the first period.
A Tale of Two Halves
Fueled by Cotton’s red-hot start, the Wildcats raced out to a 42-point first quarter, the highest-scoring opening period by any team in the last five NBL seasons. By halftime, Perth had amassed 69 points, a season-high for any team, and held a comfortable lead. The margin ballooned to as many as 23 points before the Breakers mounted a spirited second-half rally.
Led by Jackson-Cartwright and Sam Mennenga, who poured in 25 points off the bench, New Zealand outscored Perth 37-24 in the third quarter, trimming the deficit to just six points early in the fourth. But Cotton responded with a momentum-shifting three-pointer to reach the 50-point milestone for the first time in his career, steadying the Wildcats and propelling them to victory.
Looking Ahead
While Cotton’s incredible individual performance will rightfully dominate the headlines, the Wildcats will be encouraged by the contributions of their supporting cast. Seven Perth players scored in double figures, showcasing the team’s depth and balance.
For the Breakers, the immediate concern will be the health of Fall and Pineau, two key cogs in their rotation. The extent of their injuries is not yet known, but any extended absence could deal a significant blow to New Zealand’s hopes of contending for the NBL title.
As the season rolls on, one thing is certain: Bryce Cotton has firmly etched his name in the NBL record books with a performance that will be remembered for years to come. The Wildcats’ superstar continues to stake his claim as one of the greatest players in league history, and his latest masterpiece only serves to strengthen his case for a fifth MVP award.
