Akoldah Gak Yarn

In between learning the X's and O's of coach Brian Goorjian's Illawarra Hawks systems and structures this season, rookie big man Akoldah Gak has been busy studying something else throughout the 2021 NBL - his HSC equiValent. 

And after some testing times...18-year-old Gak is finally a graduate.

We may not get to see him in Illawarra colours for much longer. Gak is currently on a development player contract with the Hawks, and his recent inclusion in the Australian U19 World Championship team is great reward for a season of hard work, sacrifice and patience.

The youngest member of the Hawks NBL squad has played less than 10 minutes across his rookie season, but has trained day-in and day-out with the side - all while he continues to finish his high school studies. The 18-year-old was earlier this year included in ESPN's Top 100 High School Prospect List and although he's signed a multi-year deal with the Hawks, selection and then a good showing in Latvia in July at the World Champs could firmly put the Sydney-born product on the radars of many of America's biggest and best colleges.