Cotton fuels AI buzz

In a matter of days, the highly anticipated 2026 HoopsFest, Australasia’s biggest basketball, culture and lifestyle festival, will tip off in Perth.

As well as the nine blockbuster NBL and WNBL games, Perth will host countless other amazing activities and basketball personalities, including the one and only Allen 'The Answer' Iverson.

The attendance of the Naismith Hall of Famer has created plenty of buzz in the country's hoops community, including five-time NBL Bryce Cotton.

"I was excited [when it was announced that Iverson is going to be in attendance at HoopsFest]. I didn’t believe it at first. I wanted to wait a few more weeks to be sure he was actually coming," Cotton said.

"Everyone knows how I feel about him [Iverson], so it'll be really cool to meet him in person."

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The three-time NBL champion's excitement was echoed by 342-game NBL veteran Cam Gliddon.

"He [Iverson] was my favourite player growing up. I didn't play much like him, but he was definitely my favourite player," Gliddon said via NBL Now.

"Having him in the same building, watching your game is going to be awesome [for all the teams]."

Two-time NBL MVP Chris Anstey believes Iverson will make HoopsFest an event to remember.

"We all know what he did on a basketball court, so I want to hear his stories," Anstey said via NBL Now.

"NBA guys, in particular, have these incredible stories that remain largely untold and I'd love to find a time when Iverson's behind a microphone and do some storytelling, because his perspective on the game of basketball is so unique.

"His perspective when he was on the floor as a point guard, with such high level of ability, is so unique. The players he played against day in, day out and guarded were so incredibly talented and legendary. He's one of the greatest we've ever had and it's amazing that he's coming to Australia.

"I hope as many people turn up and follow him around into the events that he's doing, not just to get his autograph but to hear the stories will be gold."

To find out about the incredible HoopsFest, including to purchase your tickets, click here.