Illawarra Hawks coach Brian Goorjian says his team will learn from mistakes that were made on their recent road trip to Brisbane.

After losing to the Bullets on December 19, the Hawks began to return positive COVID tests and have been placed in isolation. Illawarra’s games against the South East Melbourne Phoenix, Sydney Kings and Cairns Taipans have all since been postponed.

Speaking on NBL Overtime, Goorjian explained how the Hawks need to be smarter for the rest of the season.

“We made mistakes on this trip. We did some things that we shouldn’t have done, that were legal, but I think the sign of ignorance or stupidity is doing the same thing and not learning from our mistakes,” Goorjian said.

“Masking, making sure you don’t take any risks, staying tight, being careful who you are around on a regular basis. Some lessons learnt.”

Goorjian added the roster was “decimated” and the club couldn’t come close to fielding five players.

Determined to make their time in isolation a positive experience, Goorjian said he has been watching NBA, NBL and EuroLeague games while also making daily contact with his players.

“I do have energy and I’m trying to channel it into something productive,” he said.

As for when Illawarra will be ready to play again? Goorjian is keeping a mindset of anytime, anywhere.

“If it is eight o'clock in the morning and down on the beach, I’m ready to play,” he said.