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 experienced heartbreak after a close 90-88 loss to the Adelaide 36ers on Sunday afternoon. Despite coming off their equal-lowest score in franchise history, Illawarra delivered one of their best performances in the NBL26 season.

Hickey’s Near Triple-Double

With just 1.6 seconds remaining, Will "Davo" Hickey had two free throws to tie the game but missed both. Nevertheless, Hickey stood out by leading the team with 20 points, alongside nine rebounds, eight assists, and four blocked shots. He fell just one rebound and two assists short of becoming only the second Indigenous player to achieve a triple-double.

Team Resilience and Coach’s Praise

Illawarra had not won against Adelaide in four years. Coming off a heavy 102-60 loss to the New Zealand Breakers two days earlier, the Hawks' effort impressed head coach Justin Tatum.

"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," Tatum said. "If my team plays like this every game from now on with a full, healthy roster, we can beat anybody."

Tatum was encouraged by the team's strong response after their recent defeat and praised their determination in Adelaide.

Summary

The Hawks demonstrated significant resilience and competitive spirit despite the loss, signaling positive potential for the rest of the season.

Illawarra Mercury — 2025-11-02