Round 13: Hawks vs Taipans

The Hawks hit the hardwood for the first time in 2023, with the Cairns Taipans visiting WIN Entertainment Centre on Monday night.

The match will be the Hawk's second in just over 48 hours as they look to bounce back from an NYE loss at the hands of the Wildcats.

The last meeting against these two sides produced one of the games of the season, with the Hawks eventually going down by the barest of margins in a double overtime thriller in North QLD.

Keep a Hawk Eye On

Tyler Harvey.

Harvey delivered in the clutch in the Round 10 overtime loss to the Taipans with his elite shot-making ability on full display.

The triple threat of Harvey, Frazier and Siva will have their hands full with a guard-heavy Taipans roster. However, they have all shown that they can be game-winners in their own right.

Harvey has warmed into the NBL23 season and remains the side's most dangerous perimeter marksman.

At 16.5 points per game, Harvey follows only Frazier (19 points) on the Hawks roster, and if the Hawks are to begin the new year 1-0, it will be his shot-making that may prove the difference on Monday evening.

Opposition Watch

Adam Forde’s squad may be the biggest surprise packet of the NBL23 season.

Keanu Pinder continues to play at an MVP level, supported by imports DJ Hogg, Tahjere McCall, and Shannon Scott.

Bul Kuol and rookie Sam Waardenburg will keep the likes of Swaka Lo Buluk and Grida busy on the perimeter in a clash of some of the league's best young wing talent.

Currently fourth on the league standings, the Taipans must continue their winning ways with the JackJumpers, Wildcats, 36ers, and Melbourne United hot on their heels.

Protect the Pit

We are calling on all of Hawk Nation to turn out in force and "Protect the Pit."

Tip-off 7:30 pm – tickets from $30, and $70 for families, available through Ticketmaster now.