Illawarra Hawks coach criticizes referee after Adelaide loss

Illawarra Hawks coach Justin Tatum criticized NBL referee Chris Reid following a 106-78 loss to the Adelaide 36ers on Saturday. The defeat, which ended the Hawks' two-game winning streak, was marked by a fourth-quarter brawl involving several players.

The incident began when Adelaide's Nick Rakocevic pushed Illawarra centre Makur Maker. In retaliation, Will Hickey shoved Rakocevic, leading to a melee that reached the Hawks' bench. Following the altercation, Maker was ejected after receiving a technical and a flagrant foul. Rakocevic received a technical foul, while Hickey was assessed a flagrant foul. The officials also awarded Adelaide four free throws and possession.

Tatum expressed frustration with the officiating, suggesting that the league frequently assigns Reid to games when the Hawks are gaining momentum. He argued that Maker should not have been ejected and that both Maker and Rakocevic should have been removed from the game.