Round 3: Hawks vs Breakers

The Hawks return to the WIN Entertainment Centre tomorrow night to complete Round 3 of the season with our first look at the New Zealand Breakers for NBL23.

It is a quick trip back from Adelaide for the squad and a chance to regroup from a narrow loss against the 36ers on Saturday evening.

The Hawks caught Adelaide fresh off an opening night defeat against the JackJumpers and were ready for a first-quarter assault and fast start from the home side.

Adelaide came out firing from the opening tip, with Randall ll and Cleveland doing the early damage.

The Hawks rallied and behind the outside shooting of Lachie Dent and Deng Deng went into the break with momentum and within striking distance.

The third saw the Hawks turn up the heat defensively, holding the sixers so just 12 points for the quarter and, for the fourth consecutive game, would take the lead into the ¾ time break.

An offensive explosion from Randall ll saw the Sixers close out the game and a 10-point victory. Still, Dent, Deng, and the ever-ready Tim Coenraad's performances will ensure the Hawks regroup quickly for Monday night hoops against the Breakers.

 Keep a Hawk eye on

 Deng Deng.

Deng Deng's return to the club has seen him find a regular starting spot in Coach Jackomas' lineup.

Deng's versatility and length have been critical at both ends of the floor, and his numbers and impact have gone somewhat under the radar in the early rounds.

Coming off a season-high 18 points against the Sixers, including a couple of emphatic fast-break dunks, Deng is a player the Breakers will need to put some time into coming into Monday night.

Whether it's from the 3-point line or crashing the offensive and defensive boards, Deng's contribution will be important for the Hawks in the coming weeks.

 Opposition Watch

 The Breakers come to town fresh off an impressive 85-77 win against the Phoenix in Melbourne.

After two seasons that saw them on the road and away from their home fans, it has been a strong start to the new season for Mody Maor's squad.

It was a balanced attack that delivered Saturday night's results for the Breakers, led by Izayah Le'afa with 14 points, 10 assists, and 6 rebounds.

Le'afa was well supported by Jarrell Brantley, who added 13 points and five rebounds for New Zealand. Will McDowell-White had 12 points, seven boards and three assists, and Rayan Rupert had 10 points, six rebounds and three assists.

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.