Jessup to soar again with Hawks

The Illawarra Hawks have welcomed back sharpshooter Justinian Jessup for the second season of his NBL Next Stars contract.  

Jessup signed with the Hawks prior to being selected with the 51st pick in the 2020 NBA Draft by the Golden State Warriors who he joined for the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas this off-season averaging 12.4 points per game. 

“We are delighted to welcome Justinian back this season,” Illawarra coach Brian Goorjian said. 

“Justinian’s growth was evident throughout last season, and he played a pivotal role in helping us reach the semi-finals.

“He is one of the league’s best shooters and helps us tremendously on the offensive end of the floor. We look forward to Justinian’s continued rise and believe he is poised to have another big season.” 

Last season the 23-year-old Jessup averaged 13.2 points per game for the Hawks as they made a run to the semi-finals.  

Jessup had two 26-point scoring games last season coming in February against Brisbane and April against South East Melbourne.  

“The Illawarra region embraced Justinian last season and he became a valued member of our organisation,” Hawks President /Co-Owner Dorry Kordahi said. 

“We look forward to seeing him back in Hawks colours this season and firmly believe he is an NBA talent who will achieve his NBA dream in the future.”  

Jessup joins Tim Coenraad, AJ Ogilvy, Harry Froling, Dan Grida, Emmett Naar, Sam Froling, Lachlan Dent, Tyler Harvey, Isaac White, Akoldah Gak, Duop Reath, Antonius Cleveland and Xavier Rathan-Mayes on Illawarra’s roster for the upcoming season.  

To see Justinian in action sign up as a 2021/22 Hawks Member.  Visit www.hawks.com.au/membership to find out more.