Hawks reward key piece of title success

The Illawarra Hawks have rewarded one of the architects behind the club’s Hungry Jack’s NBL25 Championship, naming Joel Khalu an associate head coach.

Khalu, who has spent three seasons with the Club, has officially signed a new two-year deal which will see him take on greater responsibility from NBL27 onwards.

Hawks Chief Operating Officer of Basketball Mat Campbell said the appointment and contract extension were fitting recognition of Khalu's outstanding work and reflected the value he brings to the organisation.

"Joel has been an integral part of everything we've built over the past three seasons, and this appointment recognises the value he brings to our basketball program," Campbell said.

“He and JT (Justin Tatum) have formed one of the strongest coaching partnerships in the League and their alignment has been a major factor in the success we've enjoyed.

“Providing continuity within our coaching group was a priority, and we're delighted to have JK remain with the Hawks while stepping into the role of associate head coach."

Khalu, who was recently named NBL1 North Coach of the Year, said he was honoured by the club's faith in him and excited to continue the work that’s made the Hawks one of the NBL’s benchmark programs.

"I'm incredibly grateful to the club for the opportunity and for the confidence they've shown in me," he said.

"It's a privilege to continue working alongside JT, Mat, our staff and this playing group.

"To be recognised with the associate head coach role means a great deal, but ultimately it's a reflection of what we've built together as a group.

“Winning a championship in 2025 was an unforgettable achievement, but we're all driven to do it again.

“My focus remains on helping our players improve every day and doing everything I can to help the Hawks set the standard across the League.”

The Hawks, who have Tyler Harvey, Sam Froling, Todd Blanchfield, Dan Grida, Will Hickey, Kobe McDowell-White, Johny Narkle, Mason Peatling, Wani Swaka Lo Buluk, and Amarco Doyle all signed, will open their 2026-27 campaign on Sunday, September 20 against the New Zealand Breakers at Spark Arena.