Illawarra Hawks are within touching distance of their first NBL Grand Final since 2017 after clinching Game 1 of their semi-final series against South East Melbourne Phoenix with a 101-94 victory at the WIN Entertainment Centre on March 1, 2025. This game showcased not only the skill of the players but also strategic brilliance from head coach Justin Tatum, whose team now leads the best-of-three series 1-0.
The atmosphere was electric at the packed WIN Entertainment Centre, as Hawks fans roared their support. The Hawks dominated the pivotal third quarter, executing an impressive 32-12 scoring surge. Star guards Trey Kell and Tyler Harvey were instrumental, each contributing 24 points. Todd Blanchfield added 16 points off the bench, proving to be another valuable asset for the team.
"The defence really ignited us," Hawks coach Justin Tatum remarked after the game. "We just had to calm down and get rolling." His words encapsulate the spirit of the game, especially as the first half was characterized by offensive uncertainty. The Hawks led narrowly at the end of the first quarter at 31-27 but fell behind to the Phoenix by halftime, with the score at 61-54.
The Phoenix, led by Joe Wieskamp's 22 points, Nathan Sobey's 17, and Derrick Walton Jr.’s 15 points – along with 11 assists – demonstrated their offensive capabilities throughout the first half. The key for the Phoenix's early success was Walton, who dished out assists and dominated play before missing 48 days due to injury. Coach Josh King highlighted this as pivotal for his team's performance early on.
Despite the Phoenix's strong finish to the second quarter, the Hawks' adjustment at halftime proved game-changing. Harvey struck quickly, nailing three consecutive three-pointers to tie the game at 65-all, igniting the Hawks' momentum. Exploiting defensive mismatches and capitalizing on transition opportunities, the Hawks surged ahead, turning the tide decisively during the third quarter.
The fourth quarter saw SEM Phoenix fighting back, narrowing the deficit to six points. Yet, the Hawks held firm under pressure, with Harvey taking a charge on Sobey and sealing the victory with clutch free throws. King reflected post-game on his team’s efforts, stating, "Second-chance points, transition baskets, ball got sticky – it was a huge punch. Credit to our guys for sticking with it. They protected homecourt, now we’ve got to go protect ours. That’s playoff basketball." These reflections demonstrate the mentality shift required for the Phoenix to regroup and prepare for Game 2.
With the victory, the Hawks are now just one win away from their first NBL Grand Final since 2017. Game 2 promises to present challenges for both teams, as they adjust strategies and key matchups. Both coaches will undoubtedly analyze movements and decisions made during Game 1 to gain the upper hand.
Looking forward, Game 2 will take place at John Cain Arena on March 2, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. AEDT. Fans across Australia have multiple options to watch the match live: available on ESPN, and for streaming on Kayo, which offers new users a free trial. Key timings for the match are set, translating across different Australian time zones to accommodate all viewers eager to witness this significant playoff clash.
Will the Hawks continue their victorious march to the Grand Final, or will the Phoenix rise to equal the series? This playoff matchup not only promises thrilling basketball but is bound to tighten the competitive atmosphere of this year’s NBL finals. Keep your eyes on both teams as they continue to vie for the prestigious title.