Illawarra Hawks players and coach address NBL future and officiating

Former Illawarra Hawks player Lachlan Olbrich recently returned to Wollongong to train with his former teammates and host a community skills clinic. Following a rookie NBA season with the Chicago Bulls and a Summer League championship with the Golden State Warriors, Olbrich expressed his affinity for the Illawarra region, stating, "I'd say definitely this is my NBL home, for sure." While he indicated he is not currently returning to the NBL for the upcoming season, he noted that if he ever does, the Hawks would be his first choice.

Separately, Illawarra Hawks head coach Matt Flinn has raised concerns regarding the quality of officiating in the NBL1. Following a preliminary final loss to the Sutherland Sharks, Flinn warned that inconsistent officiating could deter elite international talent from participating in the league. He criticized the lack of consistency in how freedom of movement is applied, suggesting that current officiating standards may drive professional players to seek opportunities elsewhere.