Illawarra Hawks Sign Tatum

Fresh off setting an NBA All-Star Game record for scoring, Jayson Tatum has re-joined his NBA team, the Boston Celtics, as they look to challenge for the 2022/23 NBA Championship.

Jayson's longest-tenured coach and skill development resource is his father, Justin Tatum. The Illawarra Hawks are pleased to announce the signing of Justin as their North American Scout and Special Advisor to Basketball Operations.

Justin Tatum was a decorated collegiate basketballer and pro player before joining the coaching ranks.

As a Nike Elite Basketball League coach, Tatum helped scout and develop the skills of several professional calibre players, including Utah Jazz and Charlotte Hornets forward Xavier Sneed.

In his home State of Missouri, Tatum has coached high school teams to multiple state championships, developing the skills of renowned players such as current North Carolina star Caleb Love and current Duke contributor Kale Catchings.

Coach Tatum also serves as the Associate Head Coach of The St. Louis Surge, the women's professional team in St. Louis.

The Hawks are pleased to welcome Coach Tatum to Australia on an upcoming trip. He will share his 18 years of coaching experience with junior and senior athletes and established and emerging coaches, with formal dates and locations announced shortly.

"I am looking forward to my visit Down Under and working with the players and coaches in Illawarra and Sydney."

"Basketball has played such a huge part in my, and my family's life, and the opportunity to share the lessons and learnings the game has taught me is a welcome one."

"Basketball in Australia and the Asia Pacific is experiencing unprecedented growth. I am excited to see Australia's love for the game first-hand and the work the Hawks are executing in this space."

About Justin Tatum

Justin attended Saint Louis University (SLU) college and received his bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice. Justin helped lead the SLU Billikens to a Conference Championship and, in March of 2000, made an NCAA Tournament appearance.
 
During Justin's time at SLU, he was named the Conference USA First Team All-Defensive player and was ranked 6th in blocked shots.
 
Tatum is currently the Head Coach of the boys' basketball program at his alma mater, Christian Brothers College High School.
 
Tatum’s coaching career and achievements include –
 
? 7 trips to the MSHSAA Final Four
? 3 MSHSAA State Championships
? 4 Public High League (PHL) Conference Championships
? 3 District Championships (PHL)
? 6 Metro Catholic Conference (MCC) Championships
? 7 District Championships (MCC)
? 4x Coach of the Year by the Mo Basketball Coaches Association (MBCA)