The Illawarra Hawks are treating their upcoming NBL game against Cairns as a must-win, using recent adversity as motivation. After a 113-89 loss to Melbourne United on Wednesday, the Hawks dropped to 10-12, with their playoff hopes hanging by a thread.
Melbourne United dominated the game, leading by 28 points after three quarters. The defending champions outscored Illawarra 37-17 in the third quarter, with coach Dean Vickerman calling it one of their best quarters of the year. Seven United players scored in double figures, led by Casper Ware with 25 points.
Todd Blanchfield led the Hawks with 22 points against his former club, but Illawarra coach Rob Beveridge admitted his team was outclassed. "We just came up against a team that was way too good for us," Beveridge said. "They had so many uncontested shots but that was through us breaking down defensively."
The Hawks now face a crucial home game against Cairns on Saturday, needing a win to keep their top-four hopes alive. Meanwhile, Melbourne United reclaimed top spot on the NBL ladder with a 13-8 record, tied with the Sydney Kings.
