The Illawarra Hawks Waratah pulled off an impressive road win on 16 May 2026, defeating the Penrith Panthers 94–84 in an NBL1 Eastern clash. The Hawks overcame a slow start to dominate the second half, using a balanced attack and defensive intensity to notch their fourth consecutive victory.

Match Overview

Penrith came out firing, building a 10-point lead midway through the first quarter behind hot three-point shooting. The Panthers led 30–22 after the first period and extended their advantage to 13 points early in the second. However, Illawarra chipped away and entered halftime trailing 50–44. The turning point came after the break, as the Hawks outscored Penrith 28–16 in the third quarter, seizing control with relentless pressure and transition scoring.

Key Performers

• Illawarra Hawks Waratah: A trio of Hawks scored 20 or more points, led by their point guard’s 25 points and 11 assists. The team shot 52% from the field and forced 17 turnovers, which they converted into 22 points.
• Penrith Panthers: The Panthers were paced by a 30-point outburst from their shooting guard, but the team’s defense fell apart in the second half. Penrith allowed the Hawks to shoot 60% after halftime and struggled to find consistent offense after the initial burst.

Decisive Moments

Illawarra took the lead for good on a three-pointer with 5:30 left in the third quarter, part of a 14–2 run that flipped the game. The Hawks’ defense clamped down, holding Penrith to just one field goal over a four-minute stretch. A key offensive rebound and put-back early in the fourth quarter extended the lead to 12 and effectively sealed the game.

Season Implications

Illawarra improves to 8–3 in the NBL1 Eastern, solidifying their spot near the top of the standings. Penrith drops to 6–5 and will need to address their second-half lapses, as they have now lost three of their last four games. The Hawks are surging and look like a team to watch as the season progresses.