In the fast-paced world of the National Basketball League (NBL), one name stands above the rest as the 2025 season reaches its climax: Bryce Cotton. The Perth Wildcats guard is on the cusp of making history, heavily favored to secure an unprecedented fifth NBL Most Valuable Player (MVP) award.
Cotton, already a four-time MVP winner, finds himself in rarified air. Only the legendary Andrew Gaze has more MVP trophies to his name, with seven. But as the league announced the finalists for its annual awards, all eyes are on the 32-year-old dynamo from Tucson, Arizona.
A Season for the Ages
Despite battling a rib injury earlier in the campaign, Cotton has elevated his game to new heights. He’s averaging a staggering 28.6 points per game, a career high, while also dishing out 4.6 assists per contest. It’s a level of production that has left coaches, teammates, and opponents in awe.
He’s MVP. He’s in another stratosphere at the moment.
Cairns Taipans coach Adam Forde
Cotton’s brilliance was on full display in a recent matchup against the Adelaide 36ers. The superstar guard erupted for 42 points, leading his Wildcats to a crucial victory. It was just one of six 40-point outbursts for Cotton this season, a feat unmatched since Andrew Gaze’s historic 1993 campaign.
Chasing Greatness
While Cotton remains humble in the face of his impending coronation, he acknowledges the significance of this moment. “I never count my chickens before they hatch, but it’s an honor to be in this conversation again,” he said, reflecting on his MVP candidacy.
Cotton also recognizes the fierce competition he faces from fellow finalists Kendric Davis of the Adelaide 36ers and Matt Hurt of the South East Melbourne Phoenix. Davis, in particular, has had a standout season, pushing Cotton to even greater heights.
I feel that me and Kendric have had historic seasons together, and I think some of the numbers that we’ve put up the NBL hasn’t seen this in the 40-minute era and for a long time.
Bryce Cotton on his MVP rivalry with Kendric Davis
A Legacy Cemented
As the NBL playoffs loom, Cotton’s focus remains squarely on leading his Wildcats to another championship. The three-time NBL champion and two-time Grand Final MVP knows that individual accolades pale in comparison to team success.
Yet there’s no denying the weight of this moment. With a fifth MVP trophy, Cotton would solidify his place among the NBL’s all-time greats, etching his name alongside icons like Andrew Gaze and Leroy Loggins. It’s a legacy that will endure long after he hangs up his sneakers.
He’s probably going to be the MVP for a reason. He’s going to score points, he’s going to take a lot of shots. The offense runs through him.
South East Melbourne Phoenix coach Josh King on defending Bryce Cotton
As the basketball world awaits the official coronation of the NBL’s most valuable player, one thing is certain: Bryce Cotton has already secured his place in the annals of Australian basketball history. His pursuit of a record-tying fifth MVP award is a testament to his unparalleled skill, relentless work ethic, and indomitable spirit – qualities that have made him a fan favorite and a true icon of the sport.
The NBL may crown a new MVP on Monday night, but Cotton’s legacy will endure far beyond any single season or accolade. He is, quite simply, one of the greatest to ever grace the hardwood in Australia – a shining example of excellence that will inspire generations of ballers to come.
