Who was in the crowd when the Hawks shocked top-of-ladder United
The Illawarra Hawks soared over Melbourne United in their Round Seven Ignite Cup clash at home, defeating the top-placed visitors 107-93. The game featured intense on-court action and enthusiastic fans who energized the atmosphere from the stands. You might spot yourself in our picture gallery below.
Hawks Return to Winning Ways
The Hawks delivered another statement victory at WIN Entertainment Centre, upsetting Melbourne United just over seven months after claiming Illawarra's second NBL title at the same venue. Although the crowd was smaller than the Championship Series Game 5 decider, the three thousand fans were just as passionate as Justin Tatum's team secured a crucial victory to keep their title defense alive.
Melbourne United's Challenge
United arrived in Wollongong as the hottest team in the league, having lost only one of their first ten games of the NBL26 season. However, their last visit to the WEC in March ended in a tough loss, dropping the deciding Game 5 of the Championship Series and awarding Illawarra their second NBL title in 47 years.
Game Summary
- Hawks led from the opening tip, maintaining control throughout.
- They ended a two-game losing streak with this win.
- The Hawks improved their record to 3-6 ahead of their next game against the Cairns Taipans on Friday night.
"The 107-93 statement win on Wednesday night came just over seven months after the Hawks beat United at the same venue to clinch Illawarra's second NBL title."
"The three thousand in the house were just as boisterous as Justin Tatum's team clinched a crucial win against the league leaders to keep their title defence alive."
Melbourne's last visit to the WEC back in March ended in disappointment, losing the deciding Game 5 of the Championship Series, handing Illawarra just their second NBL title in 47 years.
Author's summary: The Illawarra Hawks energized their home crowd by defeating top-ranked Melbourne United 107-93, overcoming a two-game slump and keeping their title hopes alive.