Why best is yet to come for Cotton

The thought of five-time NBL MVP Bryce Cotton getting better is a scary proposition for rival teams.

But that might be the reality, after the three-time champion continued his red-hot start to the Hungry Jack's NBL26 season on Thursday, tallying 28 points in Adelaide’s rout of Cairns.

Two-time NBL MVP Chris Anstey is buying into the sentiment that the 33-year-old Cotton, who is now averaging 33.5 points a game this season, is aging like a fine wine.

"There's a [real] possibility [he might be better this year]," two-time Olympian Anstey said on Friday's episode of NBL Now.

"Sometimes a new start for any player in any sport gives you that new lease on life and sense of enthusiasm and Bryce has been incredible.

"He could have had more [than 28 points] in a closer game - it felt like he held back a little.

"He's had a really big start to the season and is focused on getting his teammates more involved."

Cotton's next chance to shine on the court comes in Round 4, when the 36ers host Tasmania on Thursday, October 8.

That fixture will tip off at 7.30pm AEST, live on ESPN.