Jackomas Extension Headlines Hawks' Coaching Group

The Illawarra Hawks have finalised their coaching group for the NBL24 season, and their new look staff includes an added one-year contract extension for head coach Jacob Jackomas.

Jackomas, who was a long-time assistant of former Hawks coach Brian Goorjian, will now lead the side until the end of the NBL26 season.

His first season in charge saw the injury-hit Hawks slump to a 3-25 record for the season – however 14 of those losses came by 10 points or less.

“We acknowledged that the NBL23 season was challenging for the club, especially for a new coaching team in their first season as a collective,” Hawks GM of Basketball Mat Campbell said.

“While the win-loss record was far below the standards we set ourselves, one thing that we were encouraged by was the connection and spirit our team played with. A lot of that credit sits with Jacob and the coaching staff on their approach and commitment.

“The overwhelming feedback from those in the inner sanctum was their affinity and connection to Jacob. It was important for us to show our commitment to him throughout this process."

Assistants Shaun Rogers, Paul Mellett and Lachie Lonergan will continue on with their roles at the club while Justin Tatum – father of NBA star Jayson – has been added in a player development and assistant coaching capacity.

“We’ve benefitted from some great learnings from the NBL23 season,” Jackomas said. “I have great belief in Paul, Shaun and Lachie and look forward to adding Justin to the mix in the coming months.

“We are a proud group and a proud club, and I can assure our members, fans, and partners that we are working hard to deliver them a much-improved performance in NBL24.”

The Hawks will open their NBL24 campaign against the Sydney Kings on Saturday, September 30.