Statement on The Hawks

NBL Commissioner Jeremy Loeliger has made the following statement: “Last November the Hawks approached the NBL and expressed their desire to restore the Club’s name to the Illawarra Hawks.
 
“The NBL indicated to the Hawks that we were prepared to consider this request if there was sufficient support from the Illawarra community to make the Club a viable proposition into the future in the local market.
 
“Our position has not changed. We have the utmost faith in the new owners and the work they are doing to build a successful Club. They have brought back the NBL’s most successful coach Brian Goorjian and enjoyed their best start to a season on the court since 2013.
 
“However, as the new owners have also indicated, the Club needs to build a long-term and sustainable future. They have set a bold membership target as part of their 'Illawarra Proud' campaign and are working closely with the local business community to get behind the Foundation Club.
 
“We fully support their efforts and encourage everyone across the Illawarra region to support the Hawks. We will continue to monitor the Club’s progress and work closely with the Hawks ownership to ensure their long term viability and success.”