Illawarra Hawks Back On Track In NBL25

Ryan Tucker

Editor

Last updated: Fri 13 Dec 2024 11:18

Ryan Tucker 13 Dec 2024

Share this article

Illawarra Hawks lead the NBL25 with a 10-5 record.
Coach Tatum's strategy fosters strong team dynamics.
Balanced roster with top-notch defense & teamwork, fans hopeful for first championship win since 2000-01.

Justin Tatum, coach of the Hawks addresses his players at time-out. (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images)

After starting the NBL25 season with a 5-1 record, the Illawarra Hawks hit a bit of a wall where going on to lose 3 out of their next 4 games.

Questions were been raised about the team and how far they could go, but with their recent form with wins in 4 of their past 5 games, it’s clear this team is flying once again and is one of the league’s best teams.

The Illawarra Hawks currently sit in first place on the NBL25 ladder following their win over Melbourne United on Friday. Their record of 10 wins and 5 losses has them in great early season form to put them in a position to have the best chance to attack the back end of the season. The number one offensive team in the league has been on fire and with an average of 99.2 points per game.

It is this offensive power that has helped them establish one of the league’s best records so far this season. They are also the leagues most efficient shooting team from the field averaging 49.4% from the field which is absurd and is a credit to their offensive game style which is very free flowing and unselfish. They are also third in the NBL for three point percentage with a 37.2% mark from the three point line.

Coach Tatums Impact

Coach Tatum who is in his first full season as the head coach has really used the preseason and start to the season to develop his game plan and style in which has seen players like Trey Kell, Tyler Harvey, Will Hickey and Sam Froling flourish. He has instilled confidence in every player and is allowing them to play to their strengths and mitigate their weaknesses, which is a huge positive for them as players and as a team.

With their strong offensive ability they have also shown the ability to defend at a high level as they rank top 3 in holding their opponents to a low field goal percentage, only allowing opponents to shoot at 43.7% from the field. They also rank in the top 3 for three point percentage and hold their opponents to 35.0% which is incredible when like mentioned earlier they are shooting it at a staggering 37.2%.

The Right Mix

This team is such a well balanced roster, their mix of offensive players, defensive players and strong all around talent has really allowed this roster to develop in the offseason and they are now reaping the rewards. They throw so much at you on both ends. Offensively it’s all about movement, teamwork and high percentage shots, they utilise the extra pass, play off of each other brilliantly and communicate with each other at a high level.

Defensively it’s all about consistency, communication and effective execution of their defensive sets. Weather it is a zone, man on man, switching defence or even a full court press, you can tell this team plays for each other and their coaching staff which is a true testament to Justin Tatum and his assistants.

It’s exciting to see this powerhouse of a club back in a position where they can contend. Their rich history and devoted fans who constantly rock up have been waiting for a team who once again can compete with the best of the best in the NBL. This team is poised to have a chance to win a NBL Championship, something that the club hasn’t done since the 2000-01 season.

Will the Hawks continue to soar their way to a NBL Championship, we will find out shortly, but in the meantime it’s all about winning, getting better and giving their fans some much deserved joy.

Check out all NBL Game Previews on the bets.com.au NBL Page