Perth Wildcats Secure Narrow Victory Over Cairns Taipans Thanks to Bryce Cotton’s Masterclass

The Perth Wildcats overcame a recent three-game losing streak with a narrow 90-87 victory over the Cairns Taipans, propelled by a stellar performance from their four-time NBL MVP, Bryce Cotton. Cotton, who scored an impressive 35 points, was instrumental in sealing the win for Perth at the Cairns Convention Centre. This triumph marked a much-needed return to form for the Wildcats.

Both teams entered Thursday night’s matchup with contrasting recent performances. While the Taipans were fresh from victories over high-caliber teams like Melbourne and Tasmania, the Wildcats had suffered defeats against the same opponents. Notably, both teams faced the match missing key players, with the Taipans without Taran Armstrong due to an ankle injury and the Wildcats without powerful big man Keanu Pinder, who was sidelined with a concussion.

Throughout the game, Cotton’s long-range shooting prowess, particularly evident with his 7-of-10 from three-point land, kept Perth in the lead despite late challenges from the Taipans. Cotton scored 14 points in the first half and continued his form into the third quarter, adding another 14 points to his total. His outstanding contribution was supported by teammate Kristian Doolittle, who recorded 19 points, 11 rebounds, and four assists, stepping up significantly in Pinder’s absence.

Dylan Windler, returning from injury, added 13 points, three rebounds, and three steals, providing additional firepower for the Wildcats. Speaking after the game, Wildcats coach John Rillie expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance, stating, “We’re a pretty confident bunch of guys, we just haven’t been playing well but tonight it was great to be in a situation where we could control our own destiny.” Rillie emphasized the importance of the upcoming nine-day break in refining team dynamics with the recently returned players.

On the opposing side, the absence of Armstrong was deeply felt by the Taipans. Despite a commendable effort from star import Rob Edwards, who managed 24 points and seven rebounds, the team fell short. Additional contributions came from Sam Waardenburg with 14 points, seven assists, and five rebounds, Pedro Bradshaw with 12 points and eight rebounds, and Jonah Antonio, who scored 12 points, but none in the second half. Taipans coach Adam Forde voiced frustration with his team’s performance, admitting, “We made a lot of errors and it was off the back of errors on scout, on personnel, on execution on offence.”

The victory sees the Wildcats end their losing run, providing a morale boost and a chance to rest and strategize before their next fixture. Meanwhile, the Taipans, despite their solid season start, will need to address their on-court execution issues highlighted in this game.