Home / Sports / Cotton, Rakocevic Lead 36ers to Big Win
Cotton, Rakocevic Lead 36ers to Big Win
24 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Adelaide 36ers defeated Cairns Taipans by 20 points.
- Bryce Cotton scored 22 points and 11 assists.
- Nick Rakocevic achieved a career-high 19 points.
The top-ranked Adelaide 36ers delivered a commanding performance on Christmas Eve, defeating the Cairns Taipans by 20 points at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre. The victory improved the 36ers' season record to 16-4, further cementing their position at the top of the league standings. This decisive win contrasted with recent close contests between the two teams.
Key players Bryce Cotton and Nick Rakocevic were instrumental in the 36ers' success. Cotton led all scorers with 22 points and contributed 11 assists, while Rakocevic recorded a personal-best 19 points and secured 13 rebounds. DJ Vasiljevic also added a valuable 15 points late in the game, contributing to the team's strong offensive output.
Despite a slow start and early pressure from the Taipans, the 36ers gained control in the second quarter and extended their lead through consistent play. Although Cairns made brief rallies, Adelaide's strong performance in the final quarters ensured a comfortable margin of victory, showcasing their strength as the league's leading team.
