Hawks to battle United after protocols change schedule

The ever-changing COVID-19 landscape has once again impacted the Illawarra Hawks' NBL22 schedule.

One week after they were scheduled to take on Melbourne United, the Hawks will now battle the reigning champions on Sunday, January 16 - instead of the Perth Wildcats, due to the league's health and safety protocols.

This blockbuster clash, between the 3-1 Hawks and 4-2 United will also mark the first-ever LifeChanger Cup showdown - not to mention pitting Boomers' Goorjian and Duop Reath up against Tokyo teammates Chris Goulding and Matthew Dellavedova for the first time since winning an Olympic bronze medal.

"We're excited to once again play in front of our passionate HawkHeads at the WIN Entertainment Centre, after such a challenging and disruptive period," Hawks co-owner and president Dorry Kordahi said.

"United have established themselves as one of the top teams in the competition over the past few years, so all the boys are keen to test themselves against them, especially with silverware on the line.

"We encourage all our loyal corporate partners, members and fans to rally around our team in this time of need and experience first-hand the hottest ticket in the Illawarra."

Sunday's fixture, from 1pm AEDT, will be the Hawks' second game this week after Thursday's Adrian Hurley Cup fixture with arch-rivals Sydney - tipping off at 7.30pm.

This pair of fixtures are part of the NBL's bumper round seven schedule, which also includes New Zealand battling Melbourne (Friday), Brisbane taking on South East Melbourne (Saturday), Sydney locking horns with New Zealand (Sunday), Adelaide clashing with Perth (Tuesday) and New Zealand facing Tasmania (Wednesday).

The updated draw, which will see Illawarra vs Perth, Tasmania vs New Zealand, Cairns vs Melbourne and Adelaide vs Tasmania rescheduled at a later date, have been made in line with the NBL’s COVID health and safety protocols and respective state government close contact requirements.

 "The health and safety of the players, coaches, clubs, staff and fans is the league’s number one priority when considering these matters," an NBL spokesperson said.

"The NBL will continue to follow the advice of governments and health authorities. 

"Regular testing of all players and staff will continue, while further testing will be carried out on individuals impacted or those deemed close contacts."

Tickets for the Hawks’ 'Festival of Hoops' clashes (Thursday vs Kings and Sunday vs United) are able via Ticketmaster.