Game Report: Hawks vs Wildcats | RD19 NBL26

‍Hawks Battle Hard at the Sandpit, Fall Just Short to Wildcats

The Illawarra Hawks put on a show for the 4,234 Hawkheads in attendance at the WIN Entertainment Centre on Saturday night, but despite a massive first-half effort, the Perth Wildcats escaped with a 106-99 (View boxscore) victory.

It was an explosive start for the home side, with the Hawks flying to a 30-25 lead at the first break. The energy was electric as the boys pushed the pace, eventually carving out a 13-point lead late in the second quarter. QJ Peterson was everywhere, racking up 11 first-half points, while Wani Swaka Lo Buluk and Sam Froling provided the spark to keep the Wollongong crowd on their feet.

However, basketball is a game of runs. Perth closed the half with two late triples to trim the margin to 54-48, and a 15-2 run bridging the main break saw the lead evaporate.

The Hawks showed incredible heart in the final term. After falling behind by six at the end of the third, Justin Tatum’s squad locked in defensively, holding Perth scoreless for the first two and a half minutes of the fourth quarter. A successful coach's challenge overturned a potential Perth and-1, fueling a run that leveled the game at 80-80.

JaVale McGee was a force at both ends, finishing with a huge double-double of 18 points and 11 rebounds, including a couple of massive blocks.

Ultimately, the Wildcats' outside shooting proved the difference, as they connected on 41% of their shots from deep. Despite QJ Peterson leading the way with 22 points and Tyler Harvey adding 13, the Hawks couldn't quite overcome a late 28-15 disadvantage in fast-break points and a discrepancy at the free-throw line.

For the visitors, Kristian Doolittle proved difficult to stop with 26 points, while Dylan Windler contributed 22.

The result leaves the Hawks at 10-18, still chasing that sixth spot currently held by the JackJumpers. Our boys never quit, and with two home games left, the fight for the postseason is still alive!

Be sure to check our social media channels for all the best game highlights and behind-the-scenes photos!

NEXT HOME GAME

The Hawks are back at the WIN Entertainment Centre this Thursday night to host Bryce Cotton and the league-leading Adelaide 36ers. It’s our second-to-last home game of the season, and we need every Hawkhead in the building!

Get your tickets now at Ticketmaster!

HUNGRY JACK'S NBL SEASON 2025/26

ILLAWARRA HAWKS 99 (Peterson 22, McGee 18, Harvey 13)
PERTH WILDCATS 106 (Doolittle 26, Windler 22, Pepper 19)

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