**Illawarra Hawks’ Season in Peril as Playoff Hopes Dwindle**
Key Takeaways:
- The Illawarra Hawks sit in 8th place with a 6–13 record in the NBL26 season.
- NBA veteran JaVale McGee has shined statistically but team chemistry issues linger.
- Analysts and former players believe the Hawks are unofficially out of playoff contention.
Wollongong, NSW — The Illawarra Hawks are trending as doubts over their NBL playoff prospects mount, with former players and analysts calling their season virtually over despite a third of the schedule still remaining.
Playoff Race Slipping Away
As of
Three-time NBL champion Casey Prather, speaking on NBL Now, remarked, “It’s a little too early, but in my opinion, I think they are done.” His comments echoed growing views that Illawarra is in a transition year, rebuilding around new talent and systems.
Team Restructure and Growing Pains
The Hawks entered the 2025–26 season with major changes, including signing JaVale McGee, a three-time NBA champion. McGee has delivered strong numbers—21.9 points and 10.3 rebounds per game—but adapting to his ball-dominant style has disrupted the team’s previous pass-heavy philosophy.
Additionally, the team struggled early in the season without star forward Sam Froling, who has recently returned from injury. His comeback adds depth and size to the frontcourt, potentially making them a physical matchup nightmare for opponents. However, as Prather noted, “They’re trying to figure things out… it’s essentially a rebuilding season for them.”
Hawks Face Crucial Judgment Stretch
Looking ahead, the Hawks have 14 games remaining, enough to mount a playoff push statistically, but their inconsistent play and system adjustments make that unlikely. The outcome of Wednesday night’s game against Tasmania at WIN Entertainment Centre could determine whether the team fights on or shifts focus to player development.
Despite their losing record, matchups featuring McGee and Froling promise to be entertaining. But for fans hoping for a postseason run, time is running out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is “Illawarra Hawks” trending?
A: The Hawks’ playoff hopes are hanging by a thread, prompting expert opinions on whether their season is already over.
Q: What happens next?
A: The Hawks face the Tasmania JackJumpers on December 31 in a must-win game that could define the rest of their season.
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