Illawarra Hawks' Youngest Recruit Jackson Ball Eyes College After NBL Success
Seventeen-year-old Jackson Ball, the Illawarra Hawks' youngest ever player, is confident his decision to move from New Zealand for the NBL26 season has positioned him perfectly for his upcoming college career. The Kiwi product, who signed as a development player, has already made eight appearances for the defending champions, marking a significant step in his professional journey.
A Historic Debut and Seamless Transition
Ball made history when he debuted for the Illawarra Hawks on October 18 at just 17 years, seven months, and eight days old, surpassing former Next Stars prodigy LaMelo Ball as the club's youngest ever player. Reflecting on his season, Ball described the experience as "pretty good" and a personal success, despite the team's desire for more wins. "Being part of the team has been awesome and I've learned a lot," he said.
The opportunity arose through connections made while playing for his home club, Hawkes Bay, in the New Zealand NBL. This familiarity eased his transition, as he already knew teammates like Dan Grida, Wani Swaka Lo Buluk, and Luca Yates. "Everyone's been real welcoming," Ball noted, though he admitted missing his family during his first time away from home. "They've been watching all the games, calling, and messaging. I think they're going to save up and come visit me in college."
Adapting to Professional Basketball
Ball highlighted the stark contrast between the semi-professional NZNBL and the fully professional NBL, emphasizing the increased pace and competitiveness. "Everyone here is getting paid and fighting for their job, and they play like it," he explained. "That's the biggest difference. Everyone competes a lot more, and you have to work hard every day going 100 per cent, otherwise you're just not going to make it."
He expressed gratitude for the opportunities provided by head coach Justin Tatum, including participation in four away games. Ball enjoyed the travel experience, noting the upgraded accommodations compared to his past stays. "Being on the road is good. The rooms are real flash compared to what I've stayed in before, so it's pretty cool," he said.
Preparing for College and Beyond
In August, Ball will begin his freshman year on a Division 1 scholarship at the University of Wisconsin. He believes his time with the Hawks has been invaluable preparation. "I feel like this has been the best thing I could have done to prepare me for college," Ball stated. "I'm on a good path, and if I just keep doing the right things, keep working hard, I feel like it'll work out."
Ball's ultimate goal is to reach the NBA, but he remains grounded, focusing on continuous improvement. Praised by Tatum for his physicality, skill, and basketball IQ, Ball acknowledges areas for growth, particularly in athleticism. "They're really athletically gifted [in America], and I'm not quite there yet, so obviously working on that will get me to the next level," he admitted.
Embracing Learning and a Bright Future
Living with assistant coach Joel Khalu, Ball emphasizes the importance of asking questions to accelerate his learning. "I just like to learn, and asking questions is the best way to learn," he said. On the court, he never feels his age, viewing himself simply as a competitor among professionals.
Ball concluded with optimism about his future, inspired by living his dream. "The dream for every young basketball player is to play basketball and get to the highest level, and I feel like I'm living that dream right now and just have to take advantage of it while I can." His journey with the Illawarra Hawks has set a strong foundation as he eyes college success and beyond in the basketball world.
