BIO: Tim Coenraad was born in Brisbane (QLD) and began playing basketball as a junior with the Redlands basketball program.

FAMILY: His grandfather was Louis Farrakhan – the longstanding leader of the Nation of Islam.

NBL EXPERIENCE

Tim Coenraad made his NBL debut with the Wollongong Hawks at 24 years of age. He scored three points in his first game.

The Hawks entered the 2009/10 season with optimism and a renewed vision under first-year head coach Gordie McLeod. The league experienced one of its tightest seasons in history, as Wollongong finished in a three-way tie for second place alongside Townsville and Gold Coast. All three teams concluded the regular season with identical 16–12 records. However, head-to-head results saw the Hawks (5–3) claim the second seed, with the Crocodiles (4–4) in third and the Blaze (3–5) rounding out the playoffs.

The Hawks’ season faced a significant hurdle mid-year when star import Tywain McKee was sidelined after suffering two stress fractures in his lower back. McKee had been instrumental in the team’s early success, averaging 17.9 points, 4.8 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 1.2 steals before his injury ended his season. To address the void left by McKee, Wollongong signed journeyman guard Luke Martin to see out the remaining 13 games of the regular season. This shift placed greater responsibility on the Hawks’ core of local talent to lead their playoff push.

The team rose to the challenge, led by standout performances from Cam Tragardh (14.7 points and 5.4 rebounds), Glen Saville (10.4 points, 5.7 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.3 steals), team captain Mat Campbell (10.3 points and 3.0 rebounds), and Larry Davidson (9.7 points, 6.8 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.3 steals). Davidson’s efforts earned him the Hawks’ MVP award, recognising his vital contributions on both ends of the court. Rookie forward Tim Coenraad also played an important role off the bench, appearing in all 34 games and averaging 7.1 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 1.2 assists.

The Hawks’ postseason campaign began with a gritty semi-final series against the third-seeded Townsville Crocodiles. Wollongong triumphed in the best-of-three series (2–1) to secure a spot in the NBL Grand Final for the third time in franchise history. Coenraad, despite limited playing time, had his best game in the Game 2 loss, contributing five points and two rebounds. The series set the stage for a showdown with the league’s top-seeded Perth Wildcats (17–11).

Game 1 of the Grand Final, hosted in Perth, saw the Wildcats claim a 75–64 victory. Wildcats guard Kevin Lisch spearheaded the win with 15 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 steals, and 1 block. The series then shifted to Wollongong for Game 2, where the Hawks responded in dominant fashion. Cam Tragardh delivered a stellar 28-point performance on 12-of-20 shooting, while the Hawks’ defense contained Lisch to just 11 points, securing a 75–63 win and forcing a decisive Game 3.

The Grand Final series returned to Perth for the climactic showdown. Despite building an early 11-point lead in the second quarter, the Hawks could not withstand a resurgent Wildcats side led by Lisch. The guard redeemed himself from Game 2 with an outstanding 29-point, 5-rebound effort to propel Perth to a commanding 96–72 victory. The win secured the Wildcats’ fifth NBL Championship, with Lisch earning Finals MVP honours after averaging 18 points and 4 rebounds across the three-game series. Tragardh stood out as the Hawks’ most consistent performer in the finals, while Coenraad managed just one point in the Game 3 loss.

Reflecting on the season, McLeod and the Hawks overcame significant adversity, including McKee’s mid-season injury, to finish as one of the league’s top teams. Their ability to rally behind local talent and the contributions of key players like Davidson, Saville, and Tragardh demonstrated the team’s resilience. Although the championship eluded them, Wollongong’s remarkable journey solidified their place among the NBL’s elite for the 2009/10 campaign.

2010/11
In 2010/11, Gary Ervin led the Wollongong Hawks with standout averages of 20.1 points, 3.4 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 1.3 steals across 27 games. His dynamic playmaking and scoring ability earned him the NBL MVP award, making him the first Hawk to win the prestigious honor since Mike Jones in 1981. Despite Ervin’s exceptional individual performance, the Hawks finished the regular season with a 15–13 record, placing fifth and narrowly missing out on the playoffs.

The Hawks’ success was driven by a balanced team effort alongside Ervin’s brilliance. Oscar Forman (13.2 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 1.2 assists) emerged as a reliable scoring and rebounding option, stretching the floor with his shooting ability. Larry Davidson (9.9 points, 8 rebounds, and 1.9 assists) anchored the frontcourt, consistently providing strong interior play on both ends of the floor. Glen Saville (9.9 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 4.1 assists) contributed his trademark versatility, offering scoring, rebounding, and playmaking, while his leadership proved invaluable throughout the season.

Tim Coenraad (8.2 points and 3.1 rebounds) provided scoring depth off the bench, showcasing his ability to hit crucial shots when called upon. Mat Campbell (7.7 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.6 assists) brought experience and steady perimeter shooting, while Rhys Martin (6.3 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 2.1 assists) added playmaking in limited action, despite being restricted to just 15 games due to injury.

Other contributors included Tyson Demos (5.7 points and 1.9 rebounds), who provided energy and hustle off the bench, and David Gruber (4.6 points and 3.4 rebounds), who offered valuable minutes in the frontcourt rotation. Tim Behrendorff (3.5 points and 1.4 rebounds) and younger players like Zac Delaney and Daniel Jackson also made appearances, though their roles were limited.

2011/12
The 2011/12 season was a challenging one for the Hawks, as they finished in eighth place with a 9–19 record. Tim Coenraad provided steady contributions, averaging 8.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 0.9 assists during the regular season.

2012/13
In 2012/13, Tim Coenraad elevated his performance, averaging 8.8 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 0.9 assists. He played a pivotal role in the Hawks’ rotation, helping the team secure a third-place finish in the regular season with a 13–15 record.

2013/14
The 2013/14 season saw Tim Coenraad maintain his consistent production, averaging 8.7 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 2 assists per game. In February 2014, he achieved a career-high 28-point performance against the Adelaide 36ers. Coenraad’s contributions were instrumental in helping the Hawks finish fourth in the regular season with a 13–15 record, earning them a spot in the playoffs.

2014/15
After finishing fourth with a 13-15 record and losing to Perth in the semifinals the previous season, the Wollongong Hawks retained coach Gordie McLeod. Reigning NBL MVP Rotnei Clarke (to Okapi Aalstar) and Kevin Tiggs departed, while Oscar Forman, Tim Coenraad, Larry Davidson, Tyson Demos and David Gruber returned. Gary Ervin (via Adelaide), Jahii Carson (via Arizona State), Luke Nevill, Brad Hill (via Sydney) and Adam Ballinger (via Melbourne) were added. Rhys Martin was not re-signed while pursuing an opportunity in Europe. After becoming a regular starter the previous season following Glen Saville’s retirement, Coenraad re-signed with the Wollongong Hawks on July 4.

The Wollongong Hawks opened the season against Townsville at the WIN Entertainment Centre on October 10, where Coenraad (8 points, 11 rebounds, 1 assist, and 3 steals) started and played 27 minutes. Ervin (22 points and 7 assists) and Carson (20 points, 4 rebounds, and 5 assists) led the Wollongong Hawks to a 92-83 victory, while Todd Blanchfield (17 points, 5 rebounds, 1 assist, and 2 steals) was Townsville’s leading scorer.

Coenraad (10.1 points and 5.7 rebounds across 26 games) started all 26 of his appearances and produced career highs in both scoring and rebounding. He missed the November 7 home game against Sydney after falling ill, with Carson (12 points) and Nevill (8 points and 8 rebounds) leading the Wollongong Hawks while Josh Childress (18 points and 13 rebounds) led Sydney to an 82-53 victory. It was the first of Coenraad’s two non-appearances for the season.

After starting 1-5, the Wollongong Hawks released Gruber on October 29 after he had appeared in only two games as the club reviewed its struggling roster. “It was definitely a surprise to me,” Gruber said after being released. Martin’s attempt to secure a European contract had been unsuccessful and, having begun the season without an NBL team, he returned to the Wollongong Hawks the following day for the remainder of the season. The roster change added another experienced guard alongside Ervin and Carson.

The opening-night victory had been followed by 11 consecutive losses before Coenraad produced his best game and highest-scoring performance of the season against Townsville on November 28. Coenraad (24 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal, and 1 block) made 11-of-17 field goals and two of three three-pointers, while Ervin (14 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals) and Forman (13 points and 6 rebounds) provided support. Brian Conklin (17 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 1 steal, and 1 block) led Townsville, but the Wollongong Hawks won 90-76 at the WIN Entertainment Centre to end the losing streak and improve to 2-11.

Carson (14.5 points across 27 games) and Ervin (14.1 points, 3 rebounds, and 3.6 assists across 27 games) finished as the Wollongong Hawks’ leading scorers, while Martin (9.7 points, 3.1 assists, and 1.5 steals across 22 games) led the team in steals after his midseason return. Forman (9.2 points and 5.2 rebounds across 28 games), Nevill (7.1 points and 5.6 rebounds across 28 games) and Davidson (5.9 points and 5.8 rebounds across 25 games) provided the other major contributions. Coenraad’s career-best season was recognised when he was named the Wollongong Hawks’ Most Valuable Player, while Ballinger announced on February 13 that he would retire at the end of the season.

Coenraad did not play in the Wollongong Hawks’ final game against Adelaide at the WIN Entertainment Centre on February 22, his second non-appearance of the season. Martin (14 points, 1 rebound, and 1 assist) and Carson (13 points and 3 assists) led the Wollongong Hawks, while Jamar Wilson (23 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, and 1 steal) led Adelaide to a 105-85 victory. The loss left the Wollongong Hawks eighth with a 6-22 record and outside the playoffs, giving the foundation club only its second wooden spoon in 36 seasons.

On March 2, the Wollongong Hawks entered voluntary administration after major sponsor Wollongong Coal withdrew 18 months into a five-year agreement, leaving the club facing a $1.8 million funding shortfall over the following three years. Owner James Spenceley committed to paying staff, players and coaches during the administration period as the Wollongong Hawks searched for new financial backing to avoid folding.

2015/16
After finishing last with a 6-22 record in 2014/15 and entering Voluntary Administration, the Hawks returned under the Illawarra name for 2015/16. Long-time coach Gordie McLeod departed and was replaced by Rob Beveridge, while Jahii Carson (free agent), Gary Ervin (free agent), Luke Nevill (free agent), Brad Hill (free agent) and Adam Ballinger (retired) exited the team. Beveridge added Kevin Lisch (via Spain), AJ Ogilvy (via Spain), Kirk Penney (via Europe), Kevin White (via Sydney) and Cody Ellis (via Sydney). With Rhys Martin sidelined by a knee injury, Jarrad Weeks (via Ehingen Urspring) was initially added as his injury replacement before the opening round and remained with the Hawks for the season. Coming off the Hawks’ club MVP award, the returning forward also re-signed for the 2015/16 season.

Illawarra opened the season in Cairns on October 8, where Coenraad (7 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 steals) started as Penney (12 points and 2 assists) and Weeks (12 points and 2 assists) led the Hawks, while Cameron Gliddon (19 points, 3 rebounds, and 4 assists) led Cairns to a 79-74 victory. Lisch (7 points, 1 rebound, and 1 assist) injured his right knee during the third quarter and missed the following three games.

Coenraad (9.5 points and 3.6 rebounds across 30 games) appeared in 27 of Illawarra’s 28 regular-season games and all three semifinals, making 11 starts. No injury was reported for Coenraad during the season. His only non-appearance came against Melbourne on January 7, with contemporary reports noting he was missing from the lineup but providing no reason for his absence.

One of Coenraad’s strongest games came against Melbourne on October 11, where he finished with 17 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 steals as Ogilvy (20 points, 15 rebounds, and 3 blocks) and Penney (18 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists) also led Illawarra, while Chris Goulding (26 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists) helped Melbourne win 93-81.

Coenraad’s highest-scoring regular-season game came in Sydney on October 17, where Coenraad (18 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, and 1 steal) helped Illawarra defeat the Kings 100-86. Forman (24 points and 10 rebounds), Penney (16 points, 3 rebounds, and 3 assists) and Ogilvy (15 points, 9 rebounds, 6 assists, and 4 blocks) provided support, while Julian Khazzouh (21 points and 10 rebounds) led Sydney.

Another of his best regular-season performances came against Perth on January 21, where Coenraad (16 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1 block) provided one of Illawarra’s main scoring options with Penney sidelined by a hamstring injury. Forman (17 points and 6 rebounds) and Lisch (14 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals) provided support, while Jermaine Beal (22 points) and Casey Prather (20 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 assists) led Perth to a 95-72 victory.

Illawarra made no mid-season roster addition or release after the season began. Martin (9.1 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 4.2 assists across 18 games) returned after missing the opening 12 games with his knee injury, while Weeks (6.1 points across 31 games) remained with the team after initially joining as Martin’s injury replacement and played every game. Penney (20.4 points and 3.1 assists across 27 games) led Illawarra in scoring, while Lisch (19.4 points, 3.5 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 1.8 steals across 27 games) and Ogilvy (16.4 points, 8.5 rebounds, 1.5 steals, and 1.7 blocks across 31 games) completed Beveridge’s ‘three-headed monster’. Forman (8 points and 3.5 rebounds across 31 games) and Ellis (6 points across 29 games) were the other Hawks to average more than five points per game. Penney was named to the All-NBL Second Team, Ogilvy and Lisch were selected to the All-NBL First Team, while Lisch also won the NBL Most Valuable Player and Best Defensive Player awards.

Illawarra completed the regular season against Adelaide at the WIN Entertainment Centre on February 12, where Coenraad (4 points, 2 assists, 1 steal, and 1 block) contributed from the bench as Ogilvy (17 points and 11 rebounds), Lisch (16 points) and Martin (14 points, 4 rebounds, and 9 assists) led the Hawks, while Daniel Johnson (20 points and 8 rebounds) was Adelaide’s best. Illawarra won 106-95 to finish third with a 17-11 record.

Illawarra opened its semifinal series against second-seeded Perth at Perth Arena, where Coenraad (23 points and 3 rebounds) made five three-pointers and produced his highest-scoring game of the season. Penney (17 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists, and 1 steal) and Ogilvy (14 points, 11 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, and 2 blocks) provided support, while Prather (19 points) and Beal (18 points) led Perth to an 80-68 victory. Lisch (2 points, 4 rebounds, and 1 steal) suffered a significant left ankle injury late in the opening quarter after stepping on Jesse Wagstaff’s foot and returned to the bench in a moon boot and on crutches, with Beveridge saying, “It blew up straight away, he’s in an enormous amount of pain.”

Coenraad’s best game of the season came in game two at the WIN Entertainment Centre, where Coenraad (17 points, 7 rebounds, 1 assist, and 4 steals) made four three-pointers and did not commit a turnover as Illawarra defeated Perth 104-87 with Lisch sidelined by the ankle injury. Forman (21 points, 5 rebounds, 1 steal, and 2 blocks), Ogilvy (20 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal, and 3 blocks) and Penney (18 points, 5 rebounds, and 7 assists) also led the Hawks, while Prather (21 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 steals) and Beal (20 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists) led Perth as Illawarra levelled the series at 1-1.

Game three returned to Perth Arena, where Coenraad (0 points, 1 rebound, and 1 assist) played 20 minutes as Penney (18 points, 2 rebounds, and 5 assists), Lisch (11 points, 2 rebounds, and 1 steal) and Ogilvy (9 points, 11 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 steals, and 2 blocks) led Illawarra, while Beal (17 points, 3 rebounds, and 3 assists), Wagstaff (17 points and 7 rebounds) and Matthew Knight (15 points and 9 rebounds) led Perth. The Wildcats defeated Illawarra 89-74 and won the series 2-1.

2016/17
Illawarra entered Rob Beveridge’s second season after finishing third with a 17-11 record and losing its semifinal series 2-1 to Perth. Reigning NBL MVP and Best Defensive Player Kevin Lisch (to Sydney) departed after receiving a contract the Hawks could not match, while Kirk Penney (to New Zealand) returned home. Beveridge signed Mitch Norton (via Townsville) and Nick Kay (via Townsville) to two-year deals after the Crocodiles folded, with both choosing Illawarra despite receiving higher offers elsewhere following former Townsville coach Shawn Dennis’ recommendation to play under Beveridge. Former NBL MVP Rotnei Clarke (via Bonn) returned for a second stint and Marvelle Harris (via Fresno State) was added as an import, while AJ Ogilvy, Oscar Forman, Rhys Martin, Kevin White and Cody Ellis returned.

The long-serving forward re-signed with Illawarra on July 1 on a one-year deal for his eighth NBL season with the Hawks.

Illawarra opened the season at WIN Entertainment Centre on October 7, where Coenraad (10 points, 2 rebounds, 4 assists, and 1 block) provided scoring from the bench as the Hawks defeated Adelaide 122-88. Clarke (23 points, 6 assists, and 1 steal) and Harris (21 points, 3 rebounds, 7 assists, 3 steals, and 1 block) led Illawarra, while Mitch Creek (24 points) was Adelaide’s leading scorer. The Hawks’ 122 points were the most scored by an NBL team since the competition moved to 10-minute quarters in 2010.

Coenraad (7.7 points across 34 games) played all 28 regular-season games and all six Finals games, with no injury, illness, suspension or selection absence keeping him out. He made six starts but spent most of the season providing perimeter shooting and scoring from the bench. After winning its opener, Illawarra lost its next five games to fall to 1-5 and sat at the bottom of the ladder during the opening month.

Coenraad’s best regular-season scoring game came at Perth Arena on November 27, where Coenraad (18 points, 4 rebounds, and 1 assist) made 7-of-11 shots and four three-pointers after moving into the starting lineup with Harris unavailable because of an ankle injury. Clarke (20 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 steals) and Ogilvy (12 points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 steals) provided support, while Casey Prather (18 points, 3 rebounds, 9 assists, and 1 block) led Perth as Illawarra recovered from a 14-point deficit to win 89-85 and end a 25-game losing streak in Perth.

Illawarra secured its playoff place in the regular-season finale against Brisbane at WIN Entertainment Centre on February 11, where Coenraad (5 points and 3 assists) contributed from the bench as Forman (26 points) and Clarke (24 points, 5 rebounds, and 6 assists) led the Hawks, while Torrey Craig (30 points and 18 rebounds) was Brisbane’s best. Illawarra won 106-79 and finished fourth with a 15-13 record, one game ahead of New Zealand.

Clarke (17.3 points across 34 games) led Illawarra in scoring, won the NBL Best Sixth Man award and was named the Hawks’ MVP and Members MVP, while Ogilvy (11 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks across 34 games) earned All-NBL First Team honours and received the club’s Community Player award. Harris (10.4 points across 32 games), Kay (9.3 points and 4.5 rebounds across 34 games), Norton (8.2 points across 31 games) and Forman (6.3 points across 34 games) provided the other major contributions, with Norton named Illawarra’s Best Defensive Player and White (4.7 points across 34 games) receiving the Coach’s Award.

Coenraad’s best game of the season came in semifinal Game 1 at Titanium Security Arena on February 16, where Coenraad (26 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 steals) made 9-of-14 shots, five of eight three-pointers and all three free throws, but Adelaide defeated Illawarra 93-78. Harris (10 points, 2 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1 steal) and Clarke (10 points, 5 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1 steal) provided the other main scoring support, while Jerome Randle (26 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 steals) and Nathan Sobey (16 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 steal, and 1 block) led the 36ers, with Coenraad fouling out late in the loss. After Randle had called Illawarra “dirty” before the series, Coenraad said, “I’d rather think of him (Randle) as this good import who’s brought the NBL up.”

Game two moved to WIN Entertainment Centre, where Coenraad (17 points, 10 rebounds, 2 assists, and 1 steal) recorded a double-double as Illawarra won 100-94 and levelled the series. Norton (17 points and 3 assists) and Clarke (15 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists, and 1 steal) provided support, while Randle (20 points, 5 rebounds, 7 assists, and 1 steal) and Daniel Johnson (17 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals) led Adelaide.

The deciding game returned to Adelaide, where Coenraad (10 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 steals), Clarke (20 points, 2 rebounds, and 2 assists) and Harris (17 points, 3 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1 steal) helped Illawarra defeat the 36ers 106-98, while Randle (26 points, 4 rebounds, 6 assists, and 1 steal) and Sobey (22 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists, and 3 steals) led Adelaide. Ogilvy (4 points, 5 rebounds, and 1 assist) rolled his left ankle twice during the victory, but Illawarra won the series 2-1 and advanced to its first Grand Final since 2010.

Perth opened the Grand Final with an 89-77 win at Perth Arena, where Coenraad (11 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, and 1 steal) started and Ellis (12 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 assists) led Illawarra in scoring for the first time in his 61 games with the Hawks. Clarke (11 points, 1 rebound, 6 assists, and 1 steal) was restricted to eight shots under the defence of Damian Martin (6 points, 4 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 steals, and 1 block), while Prather (22 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, and 2 steals), Bryce Cotton (18 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists) and Matthew Knight (18 points, 11 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals) led Perth. Ogilvy (7 points, 6 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1 block) played through his ankle injury and Harris was unavailable after flying to the United States to be with his seriously ill father.

Game two moved to WIN Entertainment Centre, where Coenraad (6 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 assists), Ogilvy (21 points, 10 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals, and 4 blocks) and Clarke (21 points, 3 rebounds, 4 assists, and 1 steal) led Illawarra, while Harris (0 points, 2 rebounds, and 1 assist) returned from the United States and played 12 minutes. Cotton (20 points and 3 steals) and Prather (18 points, 4 rebounds, 6 assists, 2 steals, and 1 block) led Perth to another 89-77 victory and a 2-0 series lead.

Game three returned to Perth Arena on March 5, where Coenraad (2 points, 3 rebounds, and 1 assist) played 16 minutes as Clarke (30 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists, and 1 steal) set a Hawks Grand Final scoring record and Ogilvy (11 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists, and 1 steal) continued playing through his injured ankle. Harris (8 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists) started despite learning the previous day that his father had died, while Cotton (45 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 steals) made 12-of-17 shots, seven three-pointers and 14-of-15 free throws to set an NBL Grand Final scoring record, with Prather (17 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists) providing support. Perth won 95-86, completed the 3-0 sweep and Cotton was named Grand Final MVP.

Across 34 games, Coenraad recorded 262 points, 95 rebounds, 57 assists, 21 steals and 7 blocks.

2017/18
After finishing fourth with a 15-13 record and reaching the 2017 NBL Grand Final, where they were swept by Perth, Illawarra entered 2017/18 with imports Marvelle Harris (to Team Challenge ALS) and Michael Holyfield (to Beijing Dongfang) departing. Former NBL MVP Rotnei Clarke returned, while Demitrius Conger (via Antwerp Giants) and Delvon Johnson (via Södertälje Kings) joined coach Rob Beveridge’s largely returning local core. Beveridge said of Conger, “I always said we needed a stud three-man, and I feel very confident that we’ve found him.”

Illawarra opened the season in Cairns on October 6, where Coenraad (0 points, 1 rebound, and 2 assists) came off the bench as AJ Ogilvy (22 points, 11 rebounds, 3 assists, a steal, and a block) led the Hawks, but Alex Loughton (19 points) made the deciding free throw with 0.8 seconds remaining to give the Taipans an 88-87 win.

Coenraad (6.9 points across 28 games) appeared in every game for Illawarra, making three starts and remaining one of Beveridge’s main perimeter options off the bench. He shot 47 per cent from the field and 43 per cent from three and did not miss a game through injury.

A broken thumb suffered by Mitchell Norton in early December required surgery, with Norton (7.8 points across 19 games) missing nine consecutive games before returning in late January. Indiana Faithfull (via Sydney Comets) was added as injury cover and appeared in nine games. Despite calls for Delvon Johnson to be replaced, Johnson (4.4 points and 4.6 rebounds across 28 games) remained with Illawarra for the entire season and the Hawks made no mid-season import change.

One of Coenraad’s strongest performances came in Auckland on February 16, where he moved into the starting lineup and finished with 13 points, 8 rebounds, and a steal as Illawarra recovered from a 16-point deficit entering the fourth quarter to defeat New Zealand 84-82. Norton (13 points, 7 assists, and 2 steals) made the game-winning three-pointer with two seconds remaining and Nicholas Kay (15 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals, and 2 blocks) also contributed, while Finn Delany (23 points and 6 rebounds) led the Breakers.

Conger (19.7 points and 5.7 rebounds across 27 games) led Illawarra in scoring, finished second in NBL MVP voting and earned All-NBL First Team honours, although he missed one game through suspension after striking Brad Newley. Clarke (18 points across 25 games), Kay (11.7 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.4 steals across 28 games), Ogilvy (9.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks across 22 games), Cody Ellis (6.7 points across 20 games) and Rhys Martin (5.9 points and 1.3 steals across 28 games) were the other major contributors. Kevin White (2.8 points across 26 games) served as captain, while Oscar Forman (3.7 points across 26 games) played his final NBL season.

Coenraad’s best game of the season came in Illawarra’s final game on February 18, where he started and made five three-pointers to finish with 24 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists, and a steal as the Hawks defeated minor premier Melbourne 94-84 at Hisense Arena. Kay (27 points, 7 rebounds, and a block) and Conger (20 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 steals) also starred, while Josh Boone (14 points) and Tai Wesley (14 points and 4 rebounds) led Melbourne and Chris Goulding (13 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists, a steal, and a block) left the game with an ankle injury during the third quarter. Illawarra finished fifth with a 12-16 record.

2018/19
After finishing fifth with a 12-16 record and missing the playoffs the previous season, Illawarra reshaped its roster under coach Rob Beveridge. Oscar Forman (retired), Nick Kay (to Perth), Mitch Norton (to Perth), Demitrius Conger (to Spain), Rotnei Clarke (to Italy), Delvon Johnson (to Slovakia), Cody Ellis (free agent) and Rhys Martin (free agent) departed. AJ Ogilvy, Tim Coenraad, Nic Pozoglou and captain Kevin White returned, while Todd Blanchfield (via Sydney), David Andersen (via Melbourne), Brian Conklin (via France), Jordair Jett (via Townsville Heat), Cedric Jackson (via USA), Emmett Naar, Daniel Grida and Marshall Nelson were added. Coenraad had originally joined Wollongong in 2009 after completing his college career at Nova Southeastern and entered the season as one of the Hawks’ longest-serving players.

Illawarra opened the season against defending champion Melbourne at WIN Entertainment Centre on October 12, where Coenraad’s best game of the season saw him come off the bench for 15 points, 8 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal, and 1 block in a remarkable quadruple-overtime contest before the Hawks fell 122-123. Blanchfield (26 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists) and Ogilvy (15 points, 21 rebounds, 4 assists, 1 steal, and 2 blocks) were also outstanding for Illawarra, while Josh Boone (24 points, 12 rebounds, and 5 blocks) led Melbourne.

Coenraad (8.7 points and 4 rebounds across 27 games) remained one of Beveridge’s main weapons off the bench, starting only three games and shooting 39 per cent from three-point range. His 18 points was his highest scoring game of the season.

One of his other best performances came against Sydney on November 2, where Coenraad (16 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 steals) shared the team-high in scoring, but Illawarra fell 79-86. Blanchfield (16 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 steals) and Jett (14 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals) were the Hawks’ other leading performers, while Andrew Bogut (21 points, 14 rebounds, 2 steals, and 3 blocks) led Sydney.

Coenraad’s season-high scoring game came against league-leading Sydney on January 5, where he came off the bench for 18 points and 6 rebounds as Illawarra produced a 78-71 upset at WIN Entertainment Centre. Conklin (17 points, 12 rebounds, and 3 assists) and Andersen (11 points) provided support, while Kevin Lisch (19 points) led Sydney. The victory celebrated Beveridge’s 300th NBL game, kept Illawarra’s finals hopes alive and came after the Hawks held the Kings to only 26 first-half points, the lowest first-half score by any team that season.

Coenraad did not miss any games through injury. His only absence came in early February when he remained with his wife Nelly for the birth of their son Tyson. Beveridge said ahead of his return, “He will be back in the side and will give us a lot more experience and a lot more offensive punch and things like that.”

Conklin (14.4 points and 5.1 rebounds) led Illawarra in scoring, while Blanchfield (13.5 points and 4.2 rebounds) was named the Hawks’ club MVP. Jett (11.8 points and 1.5 steals), Ogilvy (9.4 points and 6.6 rebounds), Andersen (8.3 points and 3.5 rebounds), Jackson (7.9 points and 3.8 assists) and Grida (5.1 points) were the other major contributors as Illawarra struggled to find enough consistency to return to the playoffs.

Coenraad did not exit Illawarra following the season and remained contracted for 2019/20, continuing the one-club career he had begun with the Hawks in 2009.

Illawarra finished the season in Wellington on February 14, where Coenraad (11 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, and 1 steal) made his 27th appearance as New Zealand defeated the Hawks 130-96 and produced the highest NBL score of the 40-minute era at the time. Grida (17 points) and Ogilvy (12 points and 4 rebounds) were Illawarra’s other leading scorers, while Shawn Long (21 points and 8 rebounds) led New Zealand as Illawarra finished seventh with a 12-16 record.

2019/20
After finishing seventh with a 12-16 record and missing the playoffs the previous season, Illawarra entered the new campaign under first-year head coach Matt Flinn. Kevin White (to Adelaide), Brian Conklin, Jordair Jett and Cedric Jackson departed, while the Hawks added Next Star LaMelo Ball, former NBA guard Aaron Brooks, Josh Boone (via Melbourne), Sunday Dech (via Perth) and Sam Froling (via Creighton) around returning players Todd Blanchfield, AJ Ogilvy, David Andersen, Emmett Naar, Daniel Grida and long-serving veteran Tim Coenraad.

Coenraad entered his 11th NBL season already under contract with Illawarra, having spent his entire career with the Hawks since making his debut in 2009.

Illawarra opened the season at the WIN Entertainment Centre against Brisbane on October 6, where Coenraad (6 points, 3 rebounds, and 1 assist) made two three-pointers in 18 minutes off the bench as the Hawks lost 90-81. Brooks (23 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists) and Ball (12 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists, and 4 steals) led Illawarra, while Lamar Patterson (25 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 steals) was Brisbane’s best.

Coenraad (8.1 points across 28 games) remained a regular part of Illawarra’s rotation, shooting 46 per cent from the field and 37 per cent from three while appearing in every game. He did not miss any games through injury and provided the Hawks with a reliable perimeter shooter and experienced presence throughout a season disrupted by injuries to several of the team’s key players.

Coenraad produced one of his strongest games against Perth on October 27, finishing with 18 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1 block as Illawarra pushed the defending champions before losing 81-76. Ball (16 points, 9 rebounds, and 7 assists) provided support, while Brooks (7 points, 4 rebounds, 6 assists, 2 steals, and 1 block) tore his Achilles during the third quarter and was ruled out for the remainder of the season, with Bryce Cotton (21 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 steals) leading Perth.

Coenraad’s best game of the season came against Cairns at the WIN Entertainment Centre on November 25, where he made 10-of-13 shots and six of his eight three-point attempts to finish with 27 points, 2 rebounds, and 2 assists as Illawarra defeated the Taipans 114-106 in overtime. Ball (32 points, 11 rebounds, and 13 assists) became the youngest player in NBL history to record a triple-double, while Dech (15 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists) provided further support and DJ Newbill (27 points, 3 rebounds, 5 assists, and 3 steals) led Cairns.

Brooks (17.9 points, 3 rebounds, and 4.1 assists across 7 games) never returned following his Achilles injury, while Ball (17 points, 7.5 rebounds, 7 assists, and 1.7 steals across 12 games) produced another triple-double against New Zealand before bruising his foot during practice in December. Ball remained in Illawarra to rehabilitate before returning to the United States with four games remaining to continue his recovery and prepare for the NBA Draft. Darington Hobson (5.9 points, 4.2 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 1.3 steals across 13 games) joined the Hawks in December, while Billy Preston (6.3 points and 4.3 rebounds across 3 games) was later added before being released after three appearances following multiple missed practices.

New Year’s Eve saw Coenraad reach his 300th NBL game as bottom-placed Illawarra hosted league-leading Sydney. Coenraad (11 points, 4 rebounds, and 1 assist) helped the Hawks recover from 13 points down and outscore Sydney 25-12 in the fourth quarter to claim an 85-80 upset, with Boone (21 points and 9 rebounds) and Naar (16 points, 3 rebounds, 8 assists, and 2 steals) leading the way while Jae’Sean Tate (23 points and 6 rebounds) was Sydney’s best.

With Brooks and Ball unavailable for much of the campaign, Blanchfield (13.3 points and 3.9 rebounds across 28 games) became Illawarra’s leading scorer and won the Hawks’ MVP award for the second consecutive season. Dech (9.2 points and 3.7 rebounds across 27 games), Ogilvy (8.5 points and 6.3 rebounds across 26 games) and Boone (8.2 points and 5.8 rebounds across 24 games) were other major contributors, while Andersen (6.6 points across 16 games), Froling (6 points and 3.4 rebounds across 17 games), Naar (5.6 points and 3.6 assists across 25 games) and Angus Glover (5.2 points across 27 games) provided further support. Froling missed 11 games with an ankle injury, while Ball was named NBL Rookie of the Year.

“Success is measured in different ways. While we’re not happy with our record, we’re proud of the progress made and the exposure brought to the club,” Flinn said on the challenging season.

Illawarra closed the season against Sydney at Qudos Bank Arena on February 14, where Coenraad (0 points, 2 rebounds, 1 assist, and 1 steal) played 14 minutes as the Hawks lost 98-82. Dech (26 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 steals) and Glover (15 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists) led Illawarra, while Tate (19 points and 5 rebounds) led Sydney as the Hawks finished ninth with a 5-23 record and ten consecutive losses.

2020/21
Following a five-win season which left Illawarra at the bottom of the NBL ladder, the club entered voluntary administration in April 2020 before creditors voted to liquidate the franchise the following month. The NBL ensured the Hawks survived and on June 17 awarded the licence to Dorry Kordahi, Bryan Colangelo and Michael Proctor, with the new ownership renaming the team The Hawks and appointing six-time NBL championship-winning coach Brian Goorjian.

With all player contracts requiring renewal, LaMelo Ball (to Charlotte), Todd Blanchfield (to Perth), Sunday Dech (to Adelaide) and Angus Glover (to Sydney) departed, while Sam Froling and Emmett Naar were the only full-time players from the previous season to return. Goorjian rebuilt the roster with Cam Bairstow (via Vilnius), Deng Adel (via Long Island), Deng Deng (via New Zealand), Next Star Justinian Jessup (via Boise State) and imports Tyler Harvey (via Ulm) and Justin Simon (via Windy City). AJ Ogilvy also returned as an injury replacement for Daniel Grida, who entered the season recovering from the ACL injury suffered in March 2020. Fan favourite Tim Coenraad was not offered a roster spot and announced his retirement in November, moving into a community engagement and player welfare role with the club.

The Hawks won their opening four games while public opposition continued over the removal of “Illawarra” from the team’s name. A campaign from the new ownership increased memberships and corporate support before the NBL restored the Illawarra name ahead of the club’s first home game in February.

Coenraad (5.5 points across 11 games) remained around the team after retiring and kept himself in playing condition through training sessions with the Hawks and Illawarra’s Waratah League team. After Bairstow (11.4 points and 6.2 rebounds across 14 games) missed nine consecutive games with a minor hip issue and was ruled out for the remainder of the season on May 11, Coenraad came out of retirement as his injury replacement. “When Brian Goorjian looks at you and says he wants you to play, the only answer is yes,” Coenraad said. He was active against Adelaide that night but did not enter the game before appearing in each of Illawarra’s remaining eight regular-season games and all three semifinals. Coenraad did not miss a game through injury after returning, with his absence during the opening months of the season due to being retired and not on the playing roster. He made 18-of-41 three-pointers across his 11 appearances.

Coenraad (6 points and 6 rebounds) made two important three-pointers against New Zealand on May 28 as Illawarra defeated the Breakers 84-73 and strengthened its playoff position. Harvey (30 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists, and 5 steals) and Froling (22 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 assists) led the Hawks, while Finn Delany (24 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists) was New Zealand’s best.

Coenraad’s best game of the season came against Adelaide at the WIN Entertainment Centre on May 30, where Coenraad (12 points and 2 rebounds) made four of his six three-point attempts as Illawarra defeated the 36ers 97-83. Harvey (23 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists) and Froling (14 points and 6 rebounds) provided support, while Sunday Dech (15 points) led Adelaide. The victory was Illawarra’s seventh in eight games, improved the Hawks to 19-15 and left them one win away from securing a postseason berth.

Two days later Coenraad (3 points and 1 rebound) played 3:41 as Illawarra defeated defending champion Perth 81-79 and secured its first postseason appearance since 2017. Harvey (27 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists) and Froling (14 points) led the Hawks, while John Mooney (14 points and 16 rebounds) was Perth’s best. It was Illawarra’s only victory over Perth in four regular-season meetings after losing the previous three by double figures.

Illawarra closed the regular season against Sydney on June 3, where Coenraad (9 points, 5 rebounds, and 1 assist) made three three-pointers in 19 minutes but the Kings won 79-73. White (12 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 steals) and Naar (12 points, 3 rebounds, and 6 assists) led the Hawks, while Jarell Martin (23 points, 12 rebounds, and 2 steals) was Sydney’s best as Illawarra finished third with a 20-16 record.

Adel (5.9 points and 3.6 rebounds across 23 games) mutually agreed to leave the club in May after injuries and inconsistent form prevented him from establishing himself, while Grida (3.3 points across 18 games) returned on April 3 after more than 12 months recovering from his ACL injury. Ogilvy (4.9 points and 4.8 rebounds across 39 games) provided experience in the middle after returning to the club.

Harvey (20 points, 3.6 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 1.5 steals across 37 games) led Illawarra in scoring, was named to the All-NBL First Team and finished runner-up for league MVP, while Jessup (13.2 points and 3.6 rebounds across 38 games) was the Hawks’ second-leading scorer. Froling (11.3 points, 7 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks across 39 games) won the NBL Most Improved Player award, Simon (8.7 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.8 steals across 39 games) won the Damian Martin Trophy as the NBL’s Best Defensive Player and Deng (6.4 points and 3.8 rebounds across 39 games) provided further depth. Only Harvey, Jessup, Bairstow and Froling averaged double figures as Illawarra finished as the league’s lowest-scoring team at 81.5 points per game, while the Hawks also finished last in field-goal percentage at 42.5 percent, shooting 47.8 percent from two-point range, 33.2 percent from three and 69.4 percent from the free-throw line.

The semifinal series opened at RAC Arena, where Coenraad (10 points and 3 rebounds) made three three-pointers as Illawarra defeated Perth 74-72. Jessup (17 points and 4 rebounds) and Simon (16 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals) led the Hawks, while Todd Blanchfield (24 points) and Mooney (13 points and 15 rebounds) led Perth. Coenraad helped spark Illawarra’s second-half comeback before Simon grabbed an offensive rebound and threw down the match-winning putback dunk with 15 seconds remaining, giving the Hawks only their second victory in 24 games at RAC Arena.

Game two moved to the WIN Entertainment Centre, where Coenraad (5 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 steals) played 18 minutes as Perth defeated Illawarra 79-71 to level the series. Harvey (24 points and 4 steals) and Jessup (11 points) led the Hawks, while Mooney (18 points and 10 rebounds), Luke Travers (13 points, 10 rebounds, and 3 assists) and Clint Steindl (12 points) led Perth, with Steindl scoring all 12 of his points during a 32-point Wildcats third quarter.

Game three returned to RAC Arena, where Coenraad (3 points and 1 rebound) played seven minutes as Illawarra reduced a 16-point deficit to one early in the fourth quarter. Froling (14 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 blocks), Harvey (10 points) and Simon (9 points, 11 rebounds, and 4 assists) led the Hawks, while Blanchfield (24 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 steals), Mooney (16 points and 15 rebounds) and Mitch Norton (15 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals) led Perth to a 79-71 win.

2021/22
After pushing defending champion Perth to a deciding game in the NBL21 semifinals, Illawarra entered its second season under Brian Goorjian with Justin Simon (to Ludwigsburg), Cam Bairstow (to Adelaide) and Max Darling (released) departing. Tyler Harvey re-signed on a three-year deal, while Antonius Cleveland, Travis Trice, Harry Froling (via Brisbane) and Duop Reath (via Serbia) were added. Trice was released before the season after choosing not to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, with Xavier Rathan-Mayes signed as his replacement.

Club legend Tim Coenraad signed as Illawarra’s nominated injury replacement in August, continuing a comeback that began late in NBL21 when he came out of retirement to replace the injured Bairstow. “I just can’t stay away. I love this team and this community,” he said. He was elevated to the full roster in November after Daniel Grida suffered a season-ending knee injury.

Illawarra opened its season at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre on December 5, where the veteran grabbed 2 rebounds in nine minutes as Reath (18 points and 9 rebounds) and Justinian Jessup (17 points and 3 steals) led the Hawks to an 81-71 victory, while former Hawk Bairstow (15 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists) was Adelaide’s best.

Coenraad (3.9 points and 2.3 rebounds across 29 games) came off the bench in every appearance, providing floor spacing, rebounding and defensive hustle while shooting 36 percent from three-point range. He did not miss a game through a confirmed injury, with his only absence coming against Perth on April 22, when he was not included in the game-day roster and no reason was reported.

Coenraad’s best game came against defending champion Melbourne at John Cain Arena on March 27, where he made three three-pointers and finished with 11 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists, and 1 steal. With Goorjian unavailable after testing positive for COVID-19, Cleveland (20 points, 8 rebounds, 4 steals, and 2 blocks) and Harvey (19 points) helped Illawarra defeat United 92-77, while Jo Lual-Acuil Jr (18 points and 8 rebounds) was Melbourne’s best.

Harvey (16.1 points, 3.3 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 1.7 steals) remained Illawarra’s leading scorer, while Reath (15.6 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks) collected the Hawks’ MVP award. Cleveland (14.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, 2 steals, and 1.2 blocks) won the NBL Defensive Player of the Year award and was selected to the All-NBL First Team, while Jessup (13.3 points and 3.8 rebounds), Rathan-Mayes (10.3 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 4.1 assists) and Sam Froling (8.9 points and 7.5 rebounds) were other major contributors.

Illawarra completed the regular season against Sydney at Qudos Bank Arena on April 24, where Coenraad (1 rebound and 1 assist), Jessup (24 points, 3 rebounds, and 2 steals) and Cleveland (18 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 steals) helped the Hawks defeat the Kings 87-84, while Xavier Cooks (20 points, 14 rebounds, and 3 assists) was Sydney’s best. The victory secured the Adrian Hurley Cup, second place, home-court advantage in the semifinals and a 19-9 record.

The semifinal series opened at the WIN Entertainment Centre on April 29, where Coenraad (1 rebound, 2 assists, and 1 block), Reath (26 points, 11 rebounds, and 3 blocks) and Cleveland (21 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 blocks) led Illawarra, while Jaylen Adams (30 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists), Ian Clark (16 points) and Cooks (11 points, 10 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 blocks) helped Sydney win 89-79.

Game two moved to Qudos Bank Arena, where Coenraad (0 points in 3 minutes) became the third player behind Glen Saville and Mat Campbell to play 350 games for the Hawks. Harvey (21 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 steals), Reath (20 points and 3 blocks) and Rathan-Mayes (14 points and 8 rebounds) led Illawarra, while Adams (29 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 assists), Jarell Martin (23 points and 9 rebounds), Clark (17 points) and Cooks (16 points, 11 rebounds, 3 assists, and 4 blocks) led Sydney as the Kings won 99-87 and completed the sweep.

2022/23
After reaching the semifinals in consecutive seasons, Illawarra entered the 2022/23 campaign without Brian Goorjian, who departed to coach the Bay Area Dragons in the East Asia Super League. Long-time assistant Jacob Jackomas was promoted to head coach, but Duop Reath (to China), Justinian Jessup (to Spain), Antonius Cleveland (to Adelaide), Xavier Rathan-Mayes (to Melbourne) and Harry Froling (to Brisbane) departed, while AJ Ogilvy retired, leaving Tyler Harvey and Sam Froling as the only players retained from the previous season’s main rotation.

Jackomas added Deng Deng (via Brisbane), Wani Swaka Lo Buluk (via Sydney), Mangok Mathiang (via Casey) and imports Justin Robinson and George King. Tim Coenraad returned for a 14th season on September 18, signing as an injury replacement player after Daniel Grida suffered a hamstring injury during the preseason. The club veteran had played for Illawarra’s NBL1 East team during the off-season and was elevated into the opening-night lineup while Grida continued his rehabilitation.

Illawarra opened the season against Sydney at the WIN Entertainment Centre on October 1, where the veteran forward (9 points, 3 rebounds, and 1 steal) made two three-pointers during seven minutes off the bench. Lachlan Dent (19 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists) and Harvey (18 points) led the Hawks, while Derrick Walton Jr (32 points, 4 rebounds, 8 assists, and 1 steal), Xavier Cooks (24 points) and Justin Simon (19 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 steals) led Sydney to a 106-97 win. Robinson (10 points, 5 rebounds, 8 assists, 1 steal, and 1 block) suffered a meniscus tear during the third quarter before completing the game and undergoing season-ending surgery.

Coenraad (2.8 points across 24 games) continued to provide shooting, experience and leadership from the end of the rotation, averaging nine minutes while making 39.6 per cent of his field goals. He was available throughout the season and did not miss games because of injury. Coenraad did not enter the October 29 double-overtime loss to Melbourne due to a coach’s decision, while his other three non-appearances came against Sydney on December 16, Melbourne on December 18 and Perth on December 31 when he was not activated as an injury replacement following Grida’s return. He was temporarily restored to the lineup against Tasmania on December 22 when illness left Harvey and Michael Frazier II unavailable.

Against Sydney at Qudos Bank Arena on November 20, Coenraad (2 points, 4 rebounds, and 1 assist) was on the floor during the dramatic final seconds as Illawarra attempted to collect its second win. Harvey (32 points and 5 rebounds) and Froling (17 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 assists) helped the Hawks lead 82-78 with ten seconds remaining, but Coenraad missed two free throws after Shaun Bruce (8 points) made a lay-up, allowing Bruce to hit a corner three-pointer at the buzzer and give Sydney an 83-82 win.

Illawarra’s import group continued to be disrupted, with Peyton Siva (via New Zealand, 9.3 points, 6.3 assists, and 1.6 steals across 11 games) replacing Robinson before suffering a season-ending shoulder injury. King (10.7 points and 4.1 rebounds across nine games) returned to the United States because of a persistent ankle and lower-leg injury, with Frazier II (via Perth, 17.3 points and 3.9 rebounds across eight games) replacing him before suffering a broken left arm against Adelaide.

Harvey (18.9 points and 1.5 steals across 27 games) led Illawarra in scoring and received the Members’ Choice Award, while Froling (14 points and 8 rebounds across 28 games) was named club MVP. Deng (8.6 points and 6.5 rebounds across 28 games), Mathiang (7.7 points and 5.1 rebounds across 25 games) and Grida (5.1 points and 3.9 rebounds across 14 games) provided support, while Swaka Lo Buluk (4.9 points across 28 games) received the Defensive Player of the Year award and Akoldah Gak (1 point across 13 games) was named Players’ Player.

Ahead of Illawarra’s final game, Coenraad announced he would retire from the NBL after 14 seasons with the Hawks. Reflecting on his final appearances, he said, “I just want to finish the right way. I just want us to keep competing and as long as we compete, and the effort is there I’ll be proud of the fellas.” He also remained focused on helping Illawarra’s younger players, adding, “No matter what role I have on the court, I’ll try to do it to the best of my ability.”

Coenraad’s best all-round game came in his 374th and final NBL appearance against Tasmania at the WIN Entertainment Centre on February 4, where he made two three-pointers and finished with 8 points, 4 rebounds, and 1 steal. Harvey (13 points), Froling (12 points, 7 rebounds, and 1 steal) and Grida (9 points and 7 rebounds) also contributed, while Milton Doyle (20 points, 8 rebounds, 10 assists, and 1 steal) and Jack McVeigh (14 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals) led the JackJumpers to an 87-63 win, leaving Illawarra in 10th place with a franchise-worst 3-25 record.

Tim Coenraad played fourteen seasons in the NBL, playing for both the Illawarra Hawks and the Wollongong Hawks. He averaged 7.5 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.1 assists in 374 NBL games.

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