It seems all sides have now had their say on Bryce Cotton’s decision to sign with Adelaide 36ers after departing the Perth Wildcats.

But you know who I don’t want to hear from? The online and social media trolls with their vile and disgusting sledges over Cotton’s switch.

Where’s the respect for someone who has done so much for the Wildcats and the league? Is the five-time NBL MVP a legend of the game, or is he only a legend if he’s wearing a red singlet?

Though from a fan’s point of view, I can understand why people would be gutted about him no longer being in Perth. Especially given the expectation he would move to an overseas league.

In a podcast this week, Cotton talked about how everything went down, giving us both sides of the story given Wildcats owner Mark Arena has also spoken about it.

I don’t blame Cotton for wanting to explore his options as a free agent at the end of the season. The Wildcats wanted a quick answer after their finals exit, and I can see both sides of the situation.

Cotton had every right to take a little extra time to make a big decision about his future. It seems like he would have preferred to stay, but felt pressured to make a decision within the club’s timeframe.

From the Wildcats’ perspective, this is business and they needed to make decisions and get organised in a timely manner. And there are other details we may never fully know.

While it may not be the same, that part reminds me of when I lost my contract playing cricket for Queensland as a youngster — the message is consistent: it’s a business. Whether you agree or not, that’s the reality.

As an athlete, negotiations don’t always go the way you want, but with clear communication between the athlete, managers, and the club, everyone can hopefully come to an agreement more often than not.

In this case with Cotton and the Wildcats, even though he had his best season and has done so much for the club over the years, sometimes things just don’t align.

Cotton has played 258 NBL games and wanted to see what he was worth by putting himself out there. Can you blame him as a free agent?

The Wildcats would be considering the long-term implications of losing a player who’s had such an impactful career.

Basketball is unique in that while roster depth is essential, having star players like Cotton is crucial for on-court success. Those key players can elevate the entire team and often stand-up during critical games.

It’s a delicate balance for clubs to manage the immediate performance needs against future potential mixed with experience. The situation is complicated by Cotton taking up a large proportion of the salary cap, so all players are affected.

Most athletes, including myself during my career, aspire to play for just one club, but circumstances don’t always allow for that.

Sometimes you have to make a move that fans don’t agree with.

Changing clubs, States or even moving countries is a significant decision, and the bond you form with your team and fan base is very real. Leaving is never an easy choice.

In the end, I really hope that when Cotton returns to Perth, even though he’ll be wearing a 36ers singlet, he receives the respect he deserves rather than some of the abuse that he has received from his former fans.

I wish Cotton all the best with Adelaide. Maybe facing off against the Wildcats will challenge them to elevate their game when up against the best.

It’s all part of the sport, and I truly hope everyone can appreciate his contributions while he’s out there on the court, no matter what colours he’s wearing.