Illawarra Hawks NBL Profile: Five things you need to know

The Illawarra Hawks are the oldest continuous professional basketball team in the National Basketball League (NBL), based in Wollongong, New South Wales.

Established in 1979, the same year the NBL was founded, the Hawks have a long and storied history. Known for their loyal fan base and fighting spirit, the Hawks have faced numerous challenges over the years but have remained a staple in Australian basketball. The team has produced some of the league's most memorable moments and standout players, cementing their place in NBL history.

Formation and early struggles (1979–1990)

The Illawarra Hawks were one of the original foundation teams of the NBL, competing in the league’s inaugural season in 1979. As a regional team from Wollongong, the Hawks were one of the smallest market teams in the competition, and they faced an uphill battle competing with the larger city-based franchises. Despite these challenges, the Hawks quickly earned a reputation for their resilience and determination on the court.

Throughout the 1980s, the Hawks struggled to compete with the bigger-budget teams, often finishing in the lower half of the standings. However, the team’s grit and never-say-die attitude endeared them to fans in the Illawarra region. The Hawks gradually improved their performance, and by the end of the decade, they began to establish themselves as a competitive force in the league.

A new era and first championship (1990–2001)

The 1990s saw the Illawarra Hawks begin to build momentum and become a more formidable team in the NBL. Under head coach Alan Black, the team experienced a period of resurgence, regularly competing in the playoffs and challenging the top teams. Their breakthrough moment came in the 2000-01 season when the Hawks won their first and only NBL Championship.

Led by star players such as Glen Saville, Melvin Thomas, and Charles Thomas, the Hawks made an impressive run to the NBL Finals. In the Grand Final series, they defeated the Townsville Crocodiles to claim the championship, giving the Hawks their first taste of NBL glory. The 2001 championship was a defining moment for the club, validating their perseverance and hard work over the years.

Financial struggles and community support (2010–2016)

Despite their championship success, the Hawks faced significant financial difficulties in the 2010s. Like many smaller market teams in the NBL, the Illawarra Hawks struggled with funding and sponsorships, putting their future in jeopardy. In 2014, the team went into voluntary administration, and there were concerns that the Hawks might fold after more than three decades in the league.

However, in a testament to the support of the local community and the dedication of their fans, the Hawks were able to secure new ownership and financial backing, allowing them to continue competing in the NBL. The team was rebranded as the Illawarra Hawks, emphasising their connection to the Illawarra region and their community roots.

Return to competitiveness and LaMelo Ball era (2019–Present)

In recent years, the Illawarra Hawks have experienced a resurgence in competitiveness, thanks in part to the recruitment of high-profile international players and the development of young talent. One of the most notable moments in recent Hawks history came in the 2019-20 season when future NBA star LaMelo Ball joined the team as part of the NBL Next Stars Program. Ball’s presence brought unprecedented global attention to the Hawks, and despite an injury-shortened season, he left a lasting impact on the team and the league.

Ball’s performance in Illawarra helped boost the team's profile, and he went on to be selected as the third overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft. His success in the NBA has further elevated the Hawks' reputation as a team that can develop young talent on the international stage.

In 2021, the Hawks returned to the NBL Finals, led by head coach Brian Goorjian, one of Australia’s most successful basketball coaches. The team’s re-emergence as a contender has rekindled excitement among their fan base, and the Hawks are once again seen as a competitive force in the league.

Five Fast Facts about the Illawarra Hawks

1. Founded in 1979: The Illawarra Hawks are the oldest continuously operating team in the NBL, having been a part of the league since its inception in 1979.
2. One NBL Championship: The Hawks won their first and only NBL championship in the 2000-01 season, defeating the Townsville Crocodiles in the Grand Final.
3. LaMelo Ball’s Impact: In the 2019-20 season, the Hawks gained international attention when LaMelo Ball, now an NBA star, played for the team as part of the NBL Next Stars Program.
4. Community-Owned Team: Like the Cairns Taipans, the Illawarra Hawks have relied on community support and ownership to overcome financial difficulties, ensuring their continued presence in the NBL.
5. Home Games at WIN Entertainment Centre: The Hawks play their home games at the WIN Entertainment Centre in Wollongong, which has a capacity of around 6,000 and is known for its passionate and vocal crowd.

The Illawarra Hawks are a team built on resilience, community support, and a commitment to competitive basketball. Despite financial struggles and being a small-market team, they have carved out a place in NBL history and continue to be a fan favorite in the league. Their future remains bright as they aim for sustained success on and off the court.