In a heartfelt announcement on March 24, 2025, Bryce Cotton confirmed that he has played his final game for the Perth Wildcats, closing a remarkable chapter of nine seasons in Australia’s National Basketball League (NBL). The five-time MVP took to social media to share his decision, expressing heartfelt gratitude to the fans who have supported him throughout his illustrious career.
“Perth will always be home, but it’s time to say goodbye and see what else God has planned for me and my family,” Cotton stated, reflecting on his time with the Wildcats. The news came as a surprise to many, considering the impact Cotton has had on the team and the league as a whole.
Throughout his tenure, Cotton played 258 games for the Wildcats, during which he averaged an impressive 23.1 points per game. His achievements speak for themselves—winning three NBL championships and securing a multitude of individual accolades, including five MVP titles, which he clinched in 2018, 2020, 2021, 2024, and 2025.
As one of the standout players in NBL history, Cotton acknowledges the journey that brought him to this point. “I came at the backend of the season my first year only expecting to be here 6 weeks, and it turned into accomplishing things that no other player has achieved in their first 9 seasons in the history of the league. All glory to God,” he said, highlighting not only his successes but also his enduring faith.
Cotton’s farewell message resonated deeply with fans, as he took the time to thank them for their loyalty and support, even during the lows of his career. “Despite that, I had my slumps along the way on the court but you guys never turned your back on me and always showed genuine support. I can never thank you enough for that,” he remarked.
His departure marks the end of an era for the Wildcats, who relied on his scoring prowess and leadership on the court. Cotton leaves as a three-time champion, two-time Grand Final MVP (2017 and 2020), eight-time scoring champion, and has been named to eight All-NBL First Teams—a testament to his talent and hard work.
Fans witnessed Cotton’s brilliance this past season as he delivered an exceptional performance by averaging 28.1 points per game throughout the regular season and playoffs. He notably recorded a staggering 59-point game in December 2024, setting a record for the most points scored by any player in the NBL's modern 40-minute era.
As the 32-year-old superstar looks toward the future, there are rumors swirling about his next destination. Sources have indicated that Cotton’s representatives are exploring opportunities in the Japanese market. While a return to the NBL remains unlikely, there have been discussions surrounding potential interest from teams such as Melbourne United; however, nothing has materialized as of yet.
Currently, Cotton is playing in Puerto Rico for Mets de Guaynabo, where he will continue to showcase his incredible skills while making plans for his next chapter in professional basketball.
In reflecting on his career, Cotton expressed his hope that fans were able to enjoy his time on the court as much as he enjoyed playing for them. “I can only hope you had half as much joy watching me play as I had playing in front of y'all year after year. Win lose or draw, I gave you, my teammates, and coaches everything I had.. and thank you once again for accepting, the good games, the bad, and everything in between,” he concluded.
Cotton’s exit from the Wildcats signifies not just the end of his journey with the team but also the beginning of new experiences and challenges. His legacy will undoubtedly leave a lasting imprint on the NBL, one that will inspire future generations of players.
