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 narrowly fell 90-88 to the Adelaide 36ers on Sunday afternoon, showing strong character despite the result. After their franchise's equal-lowest score just two days earlier, the Hawks delivered one of their best performances of the NBL26 season.

Hickey’s Near Triple-Double Performance

With only 1.6 seconds on the clock, Will ‘Davo’ Hickey had a chance to tie the game from the free-throw line but missed both attempts. Still, Hickey impressed with 20 points, nine rebounds, eight assists, and four blocks—just shy of a triple-double.

If achieved, he would have become only the second Indigenous player to record a triple-double in league history.

Strong Team Response After Setback

Entering the contest without a win in Adelaide for four years and coming off a 42-point loss to the New Zealand Breakers, the Hawks delivered a spirited comeback performance. Head coach Justin Tatum praised his team’s fight and focus following the earlier setback.

"I tip my hat off to my team for coming back and showing so much resilience today. They gave a great effort on both ends of the floor, just a little bit unlucky. If my team plays like this every game from now on with a full, healthy roster, we can beat anybody."

Author’s Summary

The Hawks’ narrow defeat in Adelaide highlighted their renewed determination and resilience, offering promise for the rest of the NBL26 season.

South Coast Register — 2025-11-02