'Get it done': McLaughlin makes case for Hawks’ final import spot

Friday, August 29, 2025

Derek Rucker has backed JaQuori McLaughlin for Illawarra’s last import slot after a dominant second-half showing, praising his composure and potential impact in the Hawks’ backcourt.

JaQuori McLaughlin did everything he could to prove himself on Friday night, turning a strong audition into a compelling case for an Illawarra Hawks roster spot.

The 27-year-old landed a trial with the reigning Champions after playing under Justin Tatum at Pelita Jaya, and a dominant second half performance has put him in prime position to claim the Hawks’ final import slot.

“Do you go with him now? Do you go ahead and lock him up? I think so,” former MVP Derek Rucker said after McLaughlin’s 24-point, 5-assist game against Perth.

“I’d be stitching him up … if I’m the Hawks, I’m getting it done.”

McLaughlin could inject a fresh spark into an already talented guard rotation alongside Will Hickey and Tyler Harvey.

While filling Trey Kell III’s shoes won’t be easy, Rucker believes McLaughlin has the tools to become a pivotal piece in the Hawks’ push for back-to-back titles.

“With lead guards and the role he could potentially play with this Illawarra Hawks team, he’s got to be able to sense the moment and understand what he’s coming into," Rucker continued.

“I think he’s intelligent enough as a basketball player and I think he demonstrated that tonight, that he can he pick his moment to impact basketball games.

“Keep in mind they lost Tyler Harvey in the second and William Hickey was in and out of the lineup, and he was still able to thrive.”

Rucker praised McLaughlin’s composure, highlighting how he overcame a slow start to step up when the game hung in the balance.

“I like the way he did it. He was able to create opportunities for himself off the bounce. He was able to get to the bucket. He drew fouls. He was able to create opportunities for his teammates,” he added.

“He’s good enough to play in this competition on a very good basketball team.”

Illawarra rallied from a 14-point third quarter deficit to secure an eight-point victory in front of a sold-out AIS Arena crowd.

The result leaves the Hawks with one win and one loss at the CODE Sports NBL Blitz.