NBL postpones Hawks' next two fixtures due to COVID

The Illawarra Hawks have been forced to postpone two more of their home NBL22 fixtures due to COVID-19 protocols.

Fresh off having their Thursday, December 23 clash with the South East Melbourne Phoenix postponed, the NBL announced the Hawks' next two fixtures against the Sydney Kings (December 31) and Cairns Taipans (January 2), both at the WIN Entertainment Centre, have followed the same fate.

"The decision to postpone the Hawks' games against the Kings and Taipans have been made in line with the NBL’s health and safety protocols," an NBL spokesperson said. 

"The health and safety of the players, coaches, clubs, staff and fans is the league’s number one priority when considering these matters. 

"The NBL will continue to follow the advice of governments and health authorities and further testing will be carried out on any individuals impacted or those deemed close contacts." 

The Hawks team, who are all double vaccinated, are currently undertaking isolation as per the NSW Health protocols, with their symptoms being monitored each day. 

Hawks co-owner and president Dorry Kordahi concedes as tough as it is to have more games postponed due to the global pandemic, the safety of our team and the Illawarra community at large have to come first.

"Our main goal now is to support our players through their isolation period and make sure their health is taken care of," Kordahi said.

"We will focus on getting them game ready once they come out of isolation. 

"As a club, we have received amazing support from our corporate partners, community and fans alike - our players are very appreciative of the support. 

"Everyone is raring to get going again and continue our strong start to the season.

"During the off-season, we focussed on putting together a group we believe will be a title contender.

"This setback will only make us stronger and unite closer as a group.

"Culture is important to this club and these situations help build on that."

Patrons who have purchased tickets to the Kings and Taipans games via Ticketmaster will be contacted directly regarding the event. 

On Thursday, the NBL also announced Brisbane's match with Cairns on December 26 had been postponed due to positive COVID results within the Bullets' camp.

Tickets for the Hawks' next three matches will go on sale from 2pm AEDT on Wednesday, December 29 via Ticketmaster.