Game Preview: Hawks @ 36ers | RD10 NBL26

The Illawarra Hawks hit the road for one of their most important games of the season — a Wednesday night showdown with the Adelaide 36ers that counts toward both the NBL Ladder and the IGNITE Cup ladder. It’s Adelaide’s first IGNITE Cup hit-out, and the Hawks’ third, adding even more weight to an already high-stakes encounter.

And of course… it’s a rematch of the two-point thriller from a fortnight ago, one that saw Bryce Cotton pour in 24 points and remind everyone why he’s still the most dangerous scorer in the NBL.

Back to Adelaide — with unfinished business

The last time these two teams met, the Hawks produced one of their grittiest performances of the year, pushing Adelaide to the final whistle in a 90–88 heartbreaker.

Will “Davo” Hickey was enormous — 20 points, 9 boards, 8 dimes, 3 steals and 4 blocks — and JaVale McGee added 17 points, 11 rebounds and 6 assists in a dominant two-man performance. Adelaide were powered by Bryce Cotton’s 24 and a Zylan Cheatham double-double, but since that Round 7 showdown, Illawarra have ridden a real rollercoaster.

At their best, the Hawks have looked every bit like the reigning champs — icing Perth in a one-point classic, smashing Melbourne United in a statement Ignite Cup win, and lighting up Cairns behind Hickey’s historic triple-double and McGee’s overwhelming inside presence.

But Sunday’s loss to Sydney highlighted the inconsistency that’s plagued the team at times this season. Turnovers, flat energy and a sluggish offensive rhythm made for a tough afternoon at The Sandpit. After the game, Coach Justin Tatum didn’t hide his disappointment — noting that the group lacked the competitiveness he expected after a full week of preparation and two really strong performances. He pointed out that the starting group’s turnover total simply wasn’t up to the standard set by a unit with championship experience, but added that he believes they’ll hold themselves accountable and respond the right way.

For Illawarra to climb both ladders, finding steady form is the biggest hurdle. The good news? McGee, Hickey and Harvey continue to produce at a high level, and the resilience shown in the previous Adelaide clash — plus big wins over Perth, Melbourne and Cairns — proves this team can snap back quickly.

Adelaide’s Newest Weapon: Troy Brown Jr.

The 36ers made waves in Round 9, welcoming new import Troy Brown Jr., who made an immediate impact with 9 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists straight off the plane.

The 6’7 former NBA first-round pick brings playoff experience, versatility and size on the wing — and paired with Bryce Cotton, Isaac Humphries and Zylan Cheatham, he adds another dimension to an Adelaide side already sitting second on the NBL ladder at 9–3.

Key Numbers & Leaders

The individual stat battles are elite — both teams featuring players near the top of league leaderboards:

Hawks:

• JaVale McGee: 21.8 PPG (top five in the league), 10.4 RPG
• Davo Hickey: League-leading 8.2 APG, plus 16.4 PPG and elite defence
• Tyler Harvey: 17.45 PPG — always a threat to go nuclear

36ers:

• Bryce Cotton: A monstrous 27.4 PPG — league #1
• Zylan Cheatham: 10.6 RPG — league #1
• Isaac Humphries: 1.8 BPG — among league leaders

This is a star-studded clash everywhere you look — guards, wings, bigs and benches.

What the Hawks Need to Do

To steal one in Adelaide and boost both ladders, Illawarra will be looking for:

• A stronger opening push: Last time in Adelaide, the Hawks jumped out 6–2 but quickly slipped behind and didn’t wrestle the lead back until a third-quarter surge. Matching — or beating — the 36ers’ intensity from the opening tip will be crucial.
• Clean, sharp possessions: Turnovers hurt Illawarra against Sydney. They can’t afford to feed the 36ers in transition.
• McGee establishing the paint: The three-time NBA champ has been in monster form. If he dictates early, Adelaide will be forced to adjust.
• Hickey and Wani on Cotton: Containing the league’s top scorer is the biggest challenge of the night.
• QJ Peterson sparking the second unit: His recent breakout games have transformed the Hawks’ offensive balance.

Why This Game Matters (Twice)

Because the game is worth points in both the NBL standings and the IGNITE Cup, this is effectively a double swing game.

A Hawks win keeps Illawarra in striking range of the top six and strengthens their IGNITE Cup position after taking points off Melbourne and the Taipans.

A Hawks loss gives Adelaide a huge jumpstart in the IGNITE Cup while widening the gap on the main ladder.

In short: this one matters. A lot.

The Bottom Line

The Hawks have already proven they can go toe-to-toe with Adelaide — and despite Sunday’s setback against Sydney, their best basketball over the past fortnight has been good enough to beat anyone in the league. With McGee bullying the paint, Hickey in career-best form, and Harvey always capable of tilting a game in an instant, Illawarra head into this one with belief and something to prove.

Expect a physical, high-energy contest between two teams with serious ambitions — and serious star power.

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