From 'Frauds' to Favourites: Have the Illawarra Hawks Won Back Fans' Trust?
The Illawarra Hawks have returned to winning form, yet their fans remain cautiously optimistic. After a commanding victory over Melbourne United, the defending NBL champions seem to have rekindled some faith among their supporters.
The Hawks' statement win against the ladder leaders came just five days after a humiliating defeat where they recorded the equal-lowest score in the club's 48-year history. The backlash from Hawks fans was harsh following the 102-60 loss to the New Zealand Breakers on Halloween night.
"Frauds, so lame, there is only one spot they deserve with the effort, and that is the wooden spoon, this is embarrassing,"
and
"bring back Trey Kell III"
were some of the milder criticisms directed at Justin Tatum's team.
However, the mood shifted notably after the Hawks defeated United at the WIN Entertainment Centre, the same venue where they clinched the club's second NBL title seven months earlier. Although the crowd of three thousand was smaller than during the Championship Series Game 5, they were just as energetic in supporting Tatum’s squad as they secured a vital 107-93 win to keep their title defence alive.
Highlights of the game included strong performances from big man JaVale McGee, point guard Will ‘Davo’ Hickey, and new import Quentin Peterson. With Hickey back from injury and Peterson settling into the team, the Hawks appear to have significant potential moving forward.
Author's summary: The Illawarra Hawks have shown promising signs of recovery, reigniting fan support with key wins and standout performances after earlier struggles.