NBL MVP 2026: Cotton Edges Davis in Thrilling Close Finish

The 2025/26 National Basketball League (NBL) season delivered an exhilarating spectacle of talent, strategy, and nail-biting finishes, culminating in one of the tightest races for the prestigious Andrew Gaze Trophy. In a decision that captivated fans and pundits alike, Bryce Cotton was crowned the nbl mvp winner for a record-extending sixth time, narrowly defeating an equally deserving Kendric Davis by just two votes. This incredible outcome underscores a season defined by superstar performances, significant team shifts, and the enduring brilliance of two of the league's most dynamic guards. Cotton's unparalleled achievement further solidifies his status as a modern NBL legend, moving him within striking distance of the trophy's namesake.

A Historic Sixth Title for Bryce Cotton: The Ultimate NBL MVP Winner

Bryce Cotton's name is synonymous with NBL excellence, and the 2025/26 season saw him once again ascend to the pinnacle of individual achievement. Claiming his sixth Andrew Gaze Trophy, Cotton secured his third consecutive MVP award, a testament to his unwavering commitment to dominance and an almost supernatural ability to elevate any team around him. His previous wins in 2018, 2020, 2021, 2024, and 2025 painted a clear picture of an athlete whose peak seems to defy conventional age-related decline. For a deeper dive into this monumental achievement, read Bryce Cotton Claims Historic Sixth NBL MVP Award. What made this particular MVP season truly remarkable was Cotton's audacious move in the offseason. After forging an illustrious career and legendary status with the Perth Wildcats, Cotton made a blockbuster switch to the Adelaide 36ers. This seismic shift sent shockwaves through the league, immediately transforming the 36ers into legitimate championship contenders. At 33 years old, many wondered if the move would disrupt his rhythm, but Cotton silenced any doubters with a resounding statement of intent. He delivered on his reputation emphatically, leading his new side to the top spot for a significant portion of the season and ultimately securing a top-two finish with a stellar 23-10 record. Cotton's offensive engine was the heartbeat of the Adelaide squad, proving to be the kind of player around whom an entire team's strategy can be built. His statistical output was nothing short of phenomenal:

Points Per Game: 25.7 (League Leader)
Assists Per Game: 7.6 (League Leader & Career-High)
Steals Per Game: 1.8 (Career-High)
Rebounds Per Game: 3.6

These numbers, across 32 games, highlight not only his scoring prowess but also his enhanced playmaking and defensive contributions, showcasing a truly all-around game. A particularly memorable moment was his early-season 53-point eruption against the Cairns Taipans in October, a performance that sent an undeniable message to the rest of the competition: new colours, same devastating Bryce. This historic season further cemented Cotton's legacy as arguably the greatest guard in NBL history, consistently proving why he is the perennial nbl mvp winner.

Kendric Davis: A Season of Brilliance and Close Contention

While Bryce Cotton ultimately claimed the top honour, the story of the 2025/26 MVP race cannot be told without extensively detailing the phenomenal season of Kendric Davis. In just his second NBL season, Davis pushed Cotton to the absolute limit, narrowly missing out on his first Andrew Gaze Trophy. Like Cotton, Davis was an offseason mover, departing the Adelaide 36ers to join the Sydney Kings in the Harbour City. Under the shrewd guidance of coach Brian Goorjian, Davis not only improved upon an already impressive rookie campaign but blossomed into a league-leading offensive force. Entrusted with the keys to the Kings' offence, Davis masterfully orchestrated their attack. His lightning-quick speed, explosive drives, and uncanny ability to create for himself and others ensured the Kings not only remained competitive but finished the season at the very top of the ladder. Sydney boasted a remarkable 24-9 record, entering the postseason as championship favourites on the back of a dominant 10-game winning streak to close out the regular fixture. Davis's impact was undeniable, making him an equally compelling candidate for the nbl mvp winner title. His statistical profile for the season was equally compelling:

Points Per Game: 24.4
Assists Per Game: 6.7
Rebounds Per Game: 3.9
Field Goal Percentage: 48%

Davis's ability to consistently deliver high-level performances, coupled with his leadership in guiding the Kings to the top seed, underscored his immense value. He demonstrated an incredible knack for taking over games, often dictating the tempo and rhythm of the contest. For many, his individual brilliance and the Kings' overall success made him a strong frontrunner, making the two-vote difference all the more impactful.

The Thrilling Vote Count: What Made the Difference?

The NBL MVP award is determined by a voting panel typically consisting of NBL coaches, captains, and accredited media representatives. Each voter casts a 3-2-1 vote, assigning points to their top three candidates. The fact that Bryce Cotton secured the Andrew Gaze Trophy by a mere two votes over Kendric Davis speaks volumes about the extraordinary individual seasons both players enjoyed. So, what tipped the scales in Cotton's favour? Both players were the undisputed offensive generals for their respective teams, leading them to top-two finishes. Both delivered career-high numbers in key categories (Cotton in assists and steals, Davis in overall impact in his second season). However, a few nuances might have influenced the close result:

Statistical Edge: Cotton led the league in both points and assists, a double-double threat in statistical leadership that is hard to ignore. While Davis's numbers were stellar, Cotton's outright leadership in two major categories may have swayed some voters.
The Narrative of Transformation: Cotton's move to Adelaide and immediately transforming a team with only one postseason appearance since 2019 into a top-tier contender provided a compelling narrative. While Davis also moved teams and excelled, Cotton's narrative of joining a new, less established contender and propelling them forward arguably carried significant weight.
Longevity and Legacy: While voters are meant to judge the current season, it's human nature for a player with Cotton's incredible history and six MVPs to subtly influence perceptions. His ability to maintain such an elite level year after year, especially at 33, speaks to a consistent dominance that is truly remarkable.

Ultimately, the closeness of the vote confirms that both Cotton and Davis had MVP-calibre seasons, showcasing the immense talent currently gracing the NBL.

Beyond the Trophy: The Impact on the NBL Landscape

The 2025/26 NBL season, capped by this thrilling MVP race, signifies a vibrant and highly competitive era for Australian basketball. The movement of superstar talent like Bryce Cotton and Kendric Davis between clubs has created an unprecedented level of league-wide parity and excitement. No longer are powerhouses guaranteed; every offseason holds the potential for seismic shifts that can alter the championship landscape. This kind of individual excellence and team-level transformation offers valuable insights for NBL teams and aspiring players alike. For front offices, it underscores the critical importance of strategic player acquisition, particularly for marquee talent capable of elevating an entire roster. Having an undisputed offensive focal point, a player who can consistently create shots and facilitate for others, is paramount in today's NBL. For players, Cotton and Davis exemplify the dedication required to not only reach but maintain elite performance levels. Their seasons demonstrate that adaptability, leadership, and a relentless pursuit of improvement are hallmarks of an MVP. To fully appreciate the scope of his 2026 campaign, explore Bryce Cotton's Sixth NBL MVP: A Season of Dominance & New Beginnings. The NBL's growing profile benefits immensely from these individual narratives. The intense competition, the star power, and the compelling storylines generated by players like Cotton and Davis attract more fans, better talent, and increased media attention, further cementing the league's position as one of the premier basketball competitions globally. In conclusion, the 2025/26 NBL season will be remembered for many things, but none more so than the historic sixth MVP title for Bryce Cotton, secured in a breathtakingly close contest against the equally brilliant Kendric Davis. Cotton's move to Adelaide and immediate impact, coupled with Davis's spectacular leadership of the Sydney Kings, provided a season of unparalleled individual performances. As the dust settles, the NBL can bask in the glow of a season that showcased the league's immense talent, competitive fire, and the enduring magic of its greatest players.