From 42-point loss to heartbreak: Hawks show resilience in defeat to Adelaide

From 42-Point Loss to Heartbreak: Hawks Show Resilience in Defeat to Adelaide

The Illawarra Hawks suffered a narrow 90-88 defeat to the Adelaide 36ers on Sunday afternoon, marking another tough chapter in their NBL26 campaign. Despite the loss, the team demonstrated significant progress and fight.

Hickey’s Near Triple-Double

Will “Davo” Hickey led the Hawks with 20 points, nine rebounds, eight assists, and four blocks, falling just short of a stellar triple-double. With 1.6 seconds left on the clock, Hickey had two free throws to tie the game but missed both, sealing Adelaide’s win. The effort, however, underlined Hickey’s growing influence as a key player for Illawarra.

Coach Justin Tatum on Team Resilience

The Hawks entered the game after a heavy 102-60 defeat to the New Zealand Breakers in Wollongong, their equal-lowest score in franchise history. Despite that setback, the team responded strongly in Adelaide — a venue where they had not won in four years.

“I tip my hat off to my team for coming back and having so much resilience and fighting them today. They gave a great effort on both ends of the floor, just a little bit unlucky,” said Illawarra head coach Justin Tatum. “If my team plays like this every game from now on with a full, healthy roster, we can beat anybody.”

Summary

The Hawks transformed a heavy loss into a determined display, showing heart and improvement that could redefine their NBL26 season.

Author’s summary: Illawarra’s spirited response in Adelaide revealed resilience and renewed belief after one of their toughest franchise defeats.

South Coast Register — 2025-11-02