Game Preview - Hawks v Perth Wildcats
The fourth-placed Hawks are one win away from securing a play-in series position, with Coach Tatum's men determined to do so in front of their home faithful at WIN Entertainment Centre tonight.
Momentum and belief are on their side after a comprehensive 106-95 road win against the Sydney Kings on Sunday afternoon.
The Hawks put a last-minute defeat at the hands of the Breakers behind them to ambush the Kings, leading from start to finish to the sweet sounds of the Ïllawarra" chant ringing out across Qudos Bank Arena.
Clark, Harvey, and Swaka Lo Buluk led the scoring for the Hawks, while William' Davo' Hickey was the barometer that led the second unit, coming up big down the stretch at both ends of the floor.
The Hawks have won both outings against the Wildcats this season, the most recent a 95-77 victory in Perth.
The key to their success has been the ability to throw multiple bodies at Wildcats star Bryce Cotton, with the MVP favourite making just 5 of his 22 field goals against the Hawks this season.
The Hawks have also dominated inside, ranking first in the competition for points in the paint at 45.5 points per game.
Opposition Watch
The Wildcats have locked in second position heading into Round 20 and finish their regular season campaign against the Hawks before taking to the court against third-placed Tasmania on Saturday night.
John Rillie's men arrive in Wollongong having won their last five away games while leading the league in scoring at 94.8 points per game.
The dynamic duo of Bryce Cotton and Keanu Pinder have carried the load for the Wildcats in recent weeks and will be asked to do so again if they are to overcome the Hawks for the first time this season.
With home-court advantage secured for the playoff series, look for the Wildcats to use this weekend's fixtures to refine and settle on the rotations they hope can take them all the way in NBL24.
Don't Miss the Action
Tickets are available via Ticketmaster for today's match at www.hawks.com.au/tickets
Be in your seats by 7.15 pm for lights out, with the action to tip-off at 7.30 pm.
Today’s match is presented by Illawarra Mercury - Wollongong news, sport and weather | Illawarra Mercury | Wollongong, NSW