If it ain't broke ...

Tuesday, August 5, 2025

Illawarra Hawks lock in core roster for NBL26 as title defence begins with proven chemistry and fresh firepower.

History shows that when it comes to winning NBL Championships, stability matters.

Take the Illawarra Hawks, for example. Last season, they returned nine players from their NBL24 roster - more than any other title winning team in the past decade.

They’re sticking with that formula for NBL26, once again leaning on nine members of their history-making squad as they chase back-to-back glory.

Across the past 10 Championship teams, the minimum number of returning players has been seven.

This year, Illawarra and Sydney lead the League with the strongest returning cores.

"You've seen that on the floor, the way that we were able to get the group to come together, obviously put us in a good chance to win a championship, which we were lucky enough to do,” GM Basketball Mat Campbell told The Mercury.

"Now we are trying to find the right guys we think can help us succeed this year."

The Hawks made headlines last week with the major signing of three-time NBA champion JaVale McGee.

While they’ve farewelled key Championship contributors like Darius Days, Lachlan Olbrich and Trey Kell III, the roster still appears stacked with the right pieces to contend again.

Replacing Kell III is shaping up as the biggest challenge. Filling the shoes of an All-NBL First Team point guard is no simple task.

"They're looking for the right pieces, and I'm sure they will get them,” Tyler Harvey said of the Hawks' front-office.

Harvey, Dan Grida, Kobe McDowell-White, Luca Yates, Mason Peatling, Sam Froling, Todd Blanchfield, Wani Swaka Lo Buluk and Will Hickey all return for NBL26, giving the Hawks a strong foundation.

Former Hawk Harry Froling is also back in the League, adding another layer of experience to the group.

Rising 2027 NBA Draft prospect Jackson Ball and veteran big McGee complete a squad loaded with depth and versatility.

Illawarra will launch its NBL26 campaign against Adelaide on August 27 during the Blitz in Canberra.