NBL Statement on The Hawks' 'Illawarra Proud' Campaign

In response to the Illawarra Proud campaign launched by the Hawks today, NBL Owner and Executive Chairman Larry Kestelman made the following statement.

“Recently the owners of the Hawks approached the NBL and expressed their desire to restore the Club’s name to the Illawarra Hawks. 

“We have indicated to the Hawks that we are prepared to consider this request if there is sufficient support from the Illawarra community to make the club a viable proposition into the future in the local market.

“We have the utmost faith in the new owners and their vision to build a successful Club on and off the court. They have brought back the NBL’s most successful coach Brian Goorjian and assembled a talented playing roster for this season.

“However, as the new owners have indicated, the Club needs to build a long-term and sustainable future. They have set a bold membership target and need the local business community to get behind the Foundation Club.

“We fully support their efforts to achieve this and encourage everyone across the Illawarra region to support the Hawks as they remain an integral part of the NBL.”