Who was in the crowd when the Hawks shocked top-of-ladder United

Who Was in the Crowd When the Hawks Shocked Top-of-Ladder United

The Illawarra Hawks soared over Melbourne United during their round seven Ignite Cup clash at home, beating the league leaders 107-93. The game was marked not only by intense play but also by lively fans who showed strong support from the stands. You might even spot yourself in our picture gallery below.

Hawks Return to Winning Ways

The Hawks delivered a commanding performance to secure victory at the WIN Entertainment Centre, inflicting another defeat on Melbourne United. This 107-93 win came just over seven months after the Hawks defeated United at the same venue to claim Illawarra's second NBL title.

Though the crowd of around three thousand was smaller than during the Championship Series Game 5, it was no less enthusiastic as the home team fought hard to keep their title defense alive.

Melbourne United's Road Challenges

Melbourne United arrived in Wollongong as the league's hottest team, having lost only one of their first 10 games in NBL26. However, their previous visit to the WIN Entertainment Centre in March ended in disappointment when they lost the deciding Game 5 of the Championship Series, granting Illawarra just their second NBL title in 47 years.

Round 8 Ignite Cup Outcome

The Round 8 Ignite Cup match brought more frustration for Melbourne, as the Hawks led from start to finish, snapping a two-game losing streak. With this win, Illawarra improved their record to 3-6 ahead of their upcoming clash in Cairns against the Taipans on Friday night.

"The three thousand in the house were just as boisterous as Justin Tatum's team clinched a crucial win against the league leaders to keep their title defence alive."

Author's summary: The Illawarra Hawks stunned top-ranked Melbourne United with a decisive 107-93 win at home, reigniting their title hopes and energizing a passionate local crowd.

Illawarra Mercury — 2025-11-06