Alison Byrnes (Cunningham, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

What an incredible time to be from the Illawarra! The Illawarra Hawks have triumphantly ended a 24-year drought by securing the 2025 NBL championship, with a 114-104 victory over Melbourne United in a thrilling decider at the WIN Entertainment Centre. This win was made even more significant, as it is the second championship in the club's 46-year history—the first being in 2001.

Legendary head coach Justin Tatum has been instrumental in their success, from taking over as interim head coach in November 2023 after the Hawks finished at the bottom of the table to leading them to a historic top-of-the-table finish and a championship win this year. For their grit and determination this season, I would like to congratulate Justin and the team: Sam Froling, Tyler Harvey, Brad Ballinger, Daniel Grida, Darius Days, HJ Lee, Kobe McDowell-White, Kuany Kuany, Lachlan Olbirch, Lucas Yates, Mason Peatling, Todd Blanchfield, Trey Kell, Wani Swaka Lo Buluk, Will Hickey and Zac Triplett. I would also like to congratulate Phil Driscoll OAM, head of medical services; Amber Morrissey of events and social projects; and the Hawks CEO, Stu Taggart, on an incredible season.

The Hawks fans have played a huge part in this victory. Their passion and enthusiasm at games not only created a great home court advantage but also lifted the spirits of the players. (Time expired)