Game Preview: Hawks @ Kings | RD14 NBL26

A Christmas Miracle: Double Boost as Froling and McGee Return

Christmas Day in the NBL doesn't get any bigger than this. The Illawarra Hawks travel to the big smoke for a high-stakes holiday showdown against the Sydney Kings at Qudos Bank Arena. While the current standings present a challenge, the Hawks received the ultimate gift on Christmas Eve with the news that Co-Captain Sam Froling will make his long-awaited return to the court. Originally expected to miss the entire season after tearing his Achilles in Game 4 of last season's Grand Final series, Froling’s early return provides an emotional and tactical lift for a squad fighting to keep their playoff hopes alive.

The frontcourt receives an even bigger boost with the confirmed return of JaVale McGee. McGee, who has been a force of nature this season but missed last week's clash due to illness. His presence, combined with the return of Froling, adds massive size as the Hawks look to maintain their perfect 2-0 record in Christmas Day games played in Sydney.

Adding to the festive spirit, the Hawks are crossing fingers that Captain Tyler Harvey is cleared to play. Harvey is currently a game-time decision as he continues to rehab a back injury, and having the big shot taker out there would be the star on top of the tree for the Hawks faithful.

Managing the Momentum: The Captain's Return

While the return of Sam Froling is a massive storyline, the club is being careful to manage expectations. After such a significant injury, his return isn't about being a "saviour" for the 6-12 Hawks; rather, it is an unexpected bonus that provides a sense of continuity and a welcome lift in the locker room as the group navigates the back half of the season.

Having the Co-Captain back on the floor is a victory in itself, regardless of the box score

Video: The Return of the Captain

Adrian Hurley Cup: Rivalry Reigns Supreme

This blockbuster also marks the next chapter in the Adrian Hurley Cup, the annual mini-series celebrating the fierce, decades-long rivalry between these two NSW clubs.‍

• ‍The Standing: The Kings currently hold a 1-0 lead in this year’s series after a 98-71 win in Round 9.‍
• Historical Edge: While Sydney has a 6-4 lead in the series since its inception in 2015/16, the Hawks hold the current bragging rights after last season’s 4-0 clean sweep.‍
• Coach's Record: Coach Justin Tatum is a remarkable 6-1 all-time against the Kings, suffering his first defeat against them only last month.

Key Team Stats: Hawks vs Kings

Illawarra Hawks Leaders (Record: 6-12):

• ‍Points: JaVale McGee – 22.0 PPG‍
• Assists: William "Davo" Hickey – 7.25 APG‍
• Rebounds: JaVale McGee – 10.59 RPG‍
• Blocks: JaVale McGee – 2.06 BPG

Sydney Kings Leaders (Record: 11-7, 4th on Ladder):

• ‍Points: Kendric Davis – 23.4 PPG
• ‍Assists: Kendric Davis – 5.4 APG‍
• Rebounds: Xavier Cooks – 7.1 RPG‍
• Blocks: Xavier Cooks – 1.3 BPG

Keys to the Game

Protect the Rock: The Kings are the league’s gold standard for ball security in NBL26, committing only 8.9 turnovers per game. While the Hawks have struggled with a league-high 14.9 turnovers, though showed elite discipline last week with a season-low of just 7.

Captain's Watch: Captain Tyler Harvey is a game-time decision as he continues to rehab a back injury. His veteran leadership and elite shooting will be vital to stretching the Kings' defense if he is cleared to play.

Paint Dominance: With JaVale McGee and Sam Froling patrolling the interior, the Hawks look to exploit their league-leading rebounding and points-in-the-paint stats against Sydney's Xavier Cooks and Tim Soares.

The Hawks’ season is on the line, and with playoff aspirations hanging in the balance, there is no better stage for a statement win than Christmas Day in the capital.

‍Next Home Game

We return to the Sandpit for a New Year’s Eve clash against the Tasmania JackJumpers on Wednesday, December 31.

🎟️ Get your tickets now via Ticketmaster!

Be sure to check our social media channels for more game highlights and photos!

HUNGRY JACK’S NBL SEASON 2025/26 | RD14

‍Sydney Kings vs Illawarra Hawks Thursday, Dec 25, 8:30 PM | Qudos Bank Arena