Robinson Returns to Lead the Hawks NBL24 Campaign

The Illawarra Hawks are delighted to announce the re-signing of star guard Justin Robinson for the Hungry Jack's NBL24 season.

With his inaugural campaign cut short by a season-ending knee injury on opening night, Robinson has unfinished business with the Hawks.

Robinson made a huge impression on the organisation, assuming a leadership position from day one, and his pre-season form had him well-placed to be a dominant guard in the league.

Hawk Nation had their first look at Robinson in the NBL's pre-season, where he averaged an impressive 17 points, six assists and 3.5 rebounds per game.

The signing is a ringing endorsement of Coach Jackomas' side's approach to a challenging NBL23 campaign. Robinson is excited to return to the Illawarra and lead the Hawks climb up the competition standings.

"My dad always taught me to finish what you start. My season-ending injury in the first game didn't sit well with me. I'm excited to run it back with Coach Jacob and the Hawks next season. I can't wait to return to Illawarra and get things back to how we envisioned," said Robinson.

"The city of Wollongong embraced me from my arrival, and the organisation handled my injury the best way possible. We have a special group of coaches, staff, and players, and there is unfinished business for me with the Hawks."

"It has been hard for me to watch from afar, knowing I'm unable to help physically, but I couldn't be prouder of the team overall. The way they have continued to be true professionals and give themselves a chance in every game shows the character of everyone in the locker room."
"My goal remains the same: to win games and bring a championship back to Illawarra."

Hawks GM of Basketball Mat Campbell said Hawks members, fans and partners should be excited by retaining another key piece of the Hawks playing group heading into next season.

"It is rare to come across an athlete like Justin - We briefly saw what he is capable of achieving on and off the court for our Club - Getting him back on board helps cement our foundations as we continue to build towards NBL24," Campbell said.

"We have endured a season like no other with injuries to the import position crippling our rotations; however, we are encouraged by the resolve of the squad and the job of Jacob and his coaching staff in keeping the side connected and competitive."

"Justin is an elite talent and has been working hard back in the US to ensure he is ready for his return. We made Justin a priority, and the relationship he has built with ownership, the playing group and the coaches made it an easy decision for both parties."

Robinson will join Tyler Harvey, Sam Froling, Dan Grida and Wani Swaka Lo Buluk as confirmed signings for NBL24. The Hawks also hold options on William 'Davo' Hickey and Alex Mudronja.

The club has been forthcoming in its plans to be aggressive in the NBL's upcoming free agency period.

The Hawks conclude their NBL23 campaign with back-to-back home fixtures against the NZ Breakers on Thursday, February 2nd and the Tasmania JackJumpers on Saturday, February 4th.