Hawks Fall Short in Adelaide

The Illawarra Hawks fell short to the Adelaide 36ers on Saturday night, despite a third quarter comeback, with the final score 90-80. 

The 36ers got out of the blocks early, beginning with a 9-2 run that featured a pair of baskets from Antonius Cleveland. The 28-year-old Cleveland is familiar with the Hawks, having played under Brian Goorjian last season, where he was named the Defensive Player of the Year and averaged 14.6 rebounds. 

The Hawks’ Deng Deng provided a highlight reel dunk in the second quarter, which he followed up with some choice words for the 36ers’ Randall, who didn’t race to contest the slam.

Deng was a stand out for the Hawks, with another dunk getting his side in front 54-53 in the third quarter, with a 12-point period that saw the Hawks wedge the game back open. 

Alongside Deng (18 points, 5 rebounds) was fellow forward Sam Froling (12 points, six rebounds), who was at his industrious best. 

The Hawks couldn't hold off the 36ers’ 32-point final quarter, which came with five of their 12 three-pointers.

Illawarra Hawks (1-3) have a touch over 72 hours to regroup and rejuvenate before hosting the New Zealand Breakers on Monday at the WIN Entertainment Centre. 

HUNGRY JACK'S NBL ROUND 3

ADELAIDE 36ERS 90 (Randall 28, Franks 16, Cleveland 16)

ILLAWARRA HAWKS 80 (Deng 18, Harvey 16, Froling 12)

BOX SCORE