Hawks to Temporarily Relocate to Albury on December 26

The NBL has announced that the Hawks and the Sydney Kings will relocate to Albury on December 26.   

The move is necessary to ensure the health and safety of the players and staff, and should allow for easier travel to other states so both clubs can safely commence the new NBL season. 

NBL Commissioner Jeremy Loeliger said: “Given the ongoing situation in Sydney we have decided it’s prudent for both clubs to relocate to Albury after Christmas and they will be accommodated and train there under strict COVID protocols.” 

“This will give us time to assess and work through the next steps required as we prepare for the start of the NBL Season on January 10. We hope the restrictions in Sydney and resulting border closures will be eased as quickly as possible but we will need to stay flexible in our approach and we will continue to be guided by the advice of the relevant state health authorities.   

“I want to thank both the Kings and Hawks and all of their players and staff for their patience and understanding as we navigate this latest challenge. We are strongly committed to putting on the best season we can in front of our fans and supporting all of our clubs and players over the coming weeks and months.” 

While we work through potential changes in the season schedule, the intent and expectation is that both the Kings and Hawks will still play 14 home games in their respective home venues. 

Hawks co-owner and president, Dorry Kordahi, said the decision to relocate was made with the best interests of the league in mind. 

“We want to ensure we’re doing everything we can to commence the NBL season safely and securely in January. Considering everything that is going on at the moment, we think it’s best to base the team in Albury where it can prepare for its opening fixture of the season,” Kordahi said. 

The Hawks are scheduled to face the South East Melbourne Phoenix on January 14 in Melbourne.

Both The Hawks and the Sydney Kings continue to monitor the situation, while working with the NBL on a daily basis to ensure a safe start to the season.

We will keep you updated on any further developments as soon as they come to hand.