Illawarra Hawks announce signing of JaQuori McLaughlin

The Illawarra Hawks are excited to announce the latest signing of JaQuori McLaughlin to fill our last import roster position. JaQuori, who has been on trial with the squad over the last few weeks, proved himself to be a valuable part of the team at the Blitz where he scored 24 points and had 5 assists against Perth.

The Washington born McLaughlin has had a wide and varied career across continents and leagues with his latest contract under Coach Justin Tatum at Pelita Jaya in Indonesia.

Coach Tatum says “JaQuori’s the kind of player every coach hopes to find but rarely does. He’s got that quiet fire—you don’t always see it in his face, but you feel it in the way he controls the game. He’s smart, poised, and never rattled. When the moment gets big, he gets bigger. That comeback win against Perth? That wasn’t luck. That was JaQuori reading the floor like a chessboard and making the right move every time.

He’s not flashy, but he’s surgical. And more than that, he’s coachable. He listens, he learns, and he leads. I’ve had guys with talent, but JaQuori brings trust. You put him on the floor, and you know the team’s in good hands.”

McLaughlin’s story is one of perseverance, adaptability, and quiet excellence. From high school dominance to international courts, he’s carved out a career defined by grit and growth and we are proud to welcome him to the Illawarra Hawks.