‘Cheer or boo, I still love this city’: Cotton on Perth homecoming

There’s plenty of speculation about how the Red Army will react to five-time MVP Bryce Cotton. Will they cheer or boo when he steps onto the RAC Arena floor for the first time since his high profile off-season move to Adelaide?

There has also been strong discussion about how the Wildcats would honour their greatest ever player. Cotton won three championships in nine seasons out west, and fans were eager to see what the club had planned.

But Wildcats owner Mark Arena has since gone on the front foot, confirming he will lead a standing ovation for Cotton. It will come moments after an emotional video tribute on the jumbotron, with both teams gathered on court.

The 33-year-old American, in recent interviews with ESPN and Channel 10, admitted he will appreciate any love he gets from a place that will always hold a special place in his heart, but doesn't know quite what to expect.

"I'm not sure [what kind of reception I'll get], we're all going to find out in a couple days," Cotton said post-game on Friday.

"Of course it's good to be appreciated, but I know what I've done there and the people who I'm close to out there know what I've done as well," he continued on Channel 10.

"So that's what matters. Nothing can take away my love for the city."

Cotton has had an incredible first season with the Adelaide 36ers, averaging 26.6 points. 6.9 assists and 2.1 steals a game.

The Wildcats are expecting a huge crowd to be in attendance for the five-time MVP's return.

“Bryce sells tickets, so I’d be surprised if it isn’t sold out,” Perth owner Mark Arena said.

Sunday's blockbuster between Perth and Adelaide tips off at 4.30pm AEDT, live on ESPN and 10 Drama.