Force Multipliers: McGee, Hickey Bruise United
Illawarra Hawks Dominate Melbourne United
JaVale McGee powered the Illawarra Hawks to a commanding 107–93 victory over Melbourne United in Round 8 of the NBL26 season. The clash took place at WIN Entertainment Centre in Wollongong on November 5, 2025, marking one of McGee’s finest performances.
McGee’s Career Night
The 37-year-old center produced a standout game with 37 points, 14 rebounds, two steals, a block, and an assist in just 31 minutes. His dominant performance around the rim gave the Hawks complete control throughout the contest.
"I was just trying to be aggressive," McGee said. "That’s one thing I struggle with sometimes – staying consistent on the aggressive end. I get a little too unselfish, where I’m by the rim and try to pass it. But my teammates were really pushing the pace today. I think that’s what really helped. I was down the floor, they were throwing it ahead – it was a big team effort tonight."
Team Balance and Tactical Edge
The Hawks displayed impressive balance on both ends of the floor. With William "Davo" Hickey injecting energy into the backcourt and new import QJ Peterson giving All-NBL First Team guard Tyler Harvey more creative freedom, Illawarra appeared reinvigorated. The reigning champions seemed to have restored their rhythm and confidence.
Background and Reaction
The strong response came less than a week after coach Tatum publicly apologized for the team’s 42-point defeat to the New Zealand Breakers, signaling a swift turnaround in form and attitude.
Photo Credit
Photo: Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images
Author’s summary: McGee’s explosive 37-point showing reinvigorated the Illawarra Hawks, restoring both balance and belief in their title defense.