Illawarra Hawks Announce Assistant Coaches for NBL25 Season 

The Illawarra Hawks are excited to announce the appointment of two assistant coaches for the NBL25 Season. Joel Khalu returns from the NBL24 season, and Sam Gruggen, formerly with the Cairns Taipans, will join Head Coach Justin Tatum’s staff.   

Joel Khalu brings over 20 years of elite playing, coaching and executive experience in basketball. Along with winning multiple NBL1 North championships as a Head Coach, Khalu has also been an Assistant Coach for the Australian Emus junior national team for the past two-years. In addition, he served as Head Coach of the Papua New Guinea men’s national team for six-years, where he guided the side to a FIBA Melanesia Cup gold medal in 2017.   

Currently, Khalu is the Head Coach of the Mackay Meteors in the NBL1 North competition, a team that features Hawks players Todd Blanchfield and Luca Yates.  

“I’m pumped to be returning to the Hawks for NBL25 and joining JT’s staff from day one this season,” Khalu said.  

“Coming in midway last season provided a great opportunity to work with the guys and I can’t wait to keep building on that platform this year.”  

Mat Campbell, Hawks’ General Manager of Basketball, said, “We couldn’t have been more impressed by Joel in his time with the Club last season. He worked exceptionally well with the coaching group and built great relationships with the players. We’re excited to have him on our full-time roster for the NBL25 season.”   

He continued, “With nine players returning to build on the foundation we laid in the NBL24 season, Joel’s return provides continuity and a familiar environment for the players, while Sam brings some fresh energy and experience that will help the whole group grow.”     

Gruggen has extensive coaching experience, including being an assistant coach at the NBL level with the Cairns Taipans, Sydney Kings and Townsville Crocodiles.   

"I’m very excited to join the Illawarra Hawks organisation and to work alongside highly reputable colleagues and staff in Mat Campbell, Justin Tatum and the entire organisation.” 

The Hawks are on an exciting trajectory right now, and I hope I can contribute to the next chapter in the Club’s amazing story,” Gruggen added.  

Join the thrilling NBL25 action! Secure your spot now by registering your interest in a season membership at hawks.com.au