Hickey Goes Nuclear in NBL’s Biggest Game of the Season
The Illawarra Hawks have firmly re-entered finals contention after a commanding victory over the Cairns Taipans in Far North Queensland. Will Hickey delivered a career-defining performance, achieving the first triple-double of NBL26 and the first of his professional career.
Earlier in the season, the reigning champions had slipped to a disappointing 2–6 record, far from the title defence coach Justin Tatum had envisioned. Their recent resurgence began with a crucial win against the previously unbeaten Melbourne United, signaling a potential turnaround in form. That momentum carried into Friday night’s clash, where the Hawks controlled the game against a depleted and injury-affected Taipans team.
Cairns Struggle with Depth
Cairns coach Adam Forde faced major roster challenges, fielding a starting five that included two players — Lachlan Barker and Mojave King — who were barely on the radar just ten days earlier.
“Forde did an excellent job of marshalling the troops in the first half, with the Taipans staying within a possession up until the stroke of half time."
Despite moments of brilliance from King, the Hawks’ composure and tactical execution in the second half proved decisive. Whether it came from Tatum’s halftime address or clever strategic tweaks, Illawarra pulled away convincingly, stretching their lead to double digits by the final break.
Author’s Summary
Will Hickey’s first-ever triple-double powered the resurgent Illawarra Hawks past the Cairns Taipans, marking a major step in their NBL26 finals push.