The Hawke’s Bay Hawks are thrilled to announce the signing of Australian forward Wani Swaka Lo Buluk, completing their roster for the 2025 Sal’s National Basketball League (NBL) season. At 23 years old, Swaka Lo Buluk brings a wealth of experience, including three NBL championships, and becomes the third player to join the Big Barrel Hawks from the Illawarra Hawks, following Luca Yates and Dan Grida.​

Born in Sudan and raised in Perth Australia, Swaka Lo Buluk began his Australian NBL career with the Perth Wildcats in 2018. Over three seasons, he contributed to two championship victories. He later joined the Sydney Kings, adding a third championship in 2022. In May 2022, he signed with the Illawarra Hawks where he has spent the past three seasons. Notably, this season he was a finalist for the ANBL’s Defensive Player of the Year award.

Hawks General Manager Jarrod Kenny expressed enthusiasm about Swaka Lo Buluk’s addition. “Wani’s defensive abilites will give us a solid platform to build off. Combined with his championship experience he’ll be a valuable leader in our group and will set the tone of the team. We can’t wait for him to arrive in Hawke’s Bay at the conclusion of the Illawarra season.”​

Head Coach Sam Gruggen added. “Having coached Wani this season, I know the energy and passion he brings. His leadership and defence will be instrumental as we build towards a successful season.”​

Swaka Lo Buluk shared his excitement about joining the Hawks.“I’m eager to start this new chapter with the Hawke’s Bay Hawks. The team’s vision aligns with my aspirations, and I can’t wait to connect with the fans and contribute to our success.”​​

With the addition of Swaka Lo Buluk, the Hawks roster is now complete. He joins team mates Dan Grida, Luca Yates, Darnell Cowart, Campbell Scott, Lennox Singh, Isaac Allan, Maz Taylor, Kobe Kara, Harry Keighley, Ezrah Eagle, Clifton Bush III, Jacob Murphy and Jackson Ball on the 2025 Hawks roster. Tickets for individual games can be found at hawks.flicket.co.nz. Be sure to secure your seats at Rodney Green Arenas to watch Swaka Lo Buluk and the Hawks in action during the 2025 season.

The Big Barrel Hawks are excited to announce the signing of Australian forward Daniel Grida for the 2025 Sal’s National Basketball League (NBL) season. Grida is an athletic, versatile and determined forward who brings a wealth of experience from his time in the Australian NBL with the Illawarra Hawks and as part of the Australian Boomers setup.

The 197cm forward has overcome significant adversity throughout his career, including two ACL injuries, to return stronger than ever. During his time with the Illawarra Hawks, Grida has demonstrated resilience and grit, earning the respect of teammates and coaches alike. His leadership and relentless style of play, leaving everything on the floor will be inspiring for his team mates and will quickly make him a fan favourite. 

Big Barrel Hawks General Manager Jarrod Kenny shared his excitement about the signing. “Dan is an incredible addition to our roster. His journey speaks volumes about his character, and his on-court abilities will undoubtedly elevate our team. He is a perfect example for our younger players of what a professional basketballer is all about.  We’re thrilled to welcome him to the Hawke’s Bay whanau and are confident he’ll be a fan favorite this season.”

Head Coach Sam Gruggen, who has worked closely with Grida during their time together at Illawarra, added:
“Having coached Dan before, I know firsthand the energy and passion he brings to every game. He’s a true competitor who plays with heart and determination, and I’m excited to see him contribute to the culture we’re building here in Hawke’s Bay.”

Grida, eager to take on this new challenge, expressed his enthusiasm about joining the Big Barrel Hawks.“I’m really looking forward to this next chapter of my career with the Hawks. The team has a great reputation, and I’m excited to be part of the journey. I can’t wait to connect with the fans, give my all on the court, and help the team get wins this season.”

Grida will arrive in Hawke’s Bay with fellow Illawarra team mate Luca Yates, following the conclusion of the Illawarra Hawks’ Final Series in the Australian NBL, where he has been a key contributor to a championship-contending team.

Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand – 04th March 2025

Press Release

The Hawke’s Bay Hawks are proud to announce Big Barrel as the team’s official Naming Rights Partner, ushering in an exciting new era as the Big Barrel Hawks for the 2025 Sal’s NBL season.

This landmark partnership marks the beginning of a long-term collaboration between Big Barrel, a local Hawke’s Bay business that is also New Zealand’s leading liquor retailer, and one of the country’s most respected basketball franchises. The synergy is clear: both brands share deep community ties, a relentless drive for success, and an unwavering commitment to their supporters. 

Big Barrel is a proud community business, who have supported multiple sports and events over the last 22yrs, and who are now excited to support & help grow basketball in Hawkes Bay.

Tapping into a Passionate, Hard-to-Reach Audience

Basketball is New Zealand’s fastest-growing sport and commands a highly engaged, youthful, and passionate audience. The Hawks’ fanbase is no exception:

• 1,600+ hours of televised content reaching over 21.6 million international viewers.
• A strong domestic following, with 553,260 fans watching Sal’s NBL coverage on Sky Sport and Sky Open in 2024.
• The most-watched TikTok Live team in NZ Basketball, with 106,738 unique viewers in 2024.
• A core audience of 18-44-year-old males, a key demographic for Big Barrel.

“This partnership allows us to connect with a high-value audience in an authentic, community-driven way,” said Trevor Smith, General Manager of Big Barrel. “The Hawks aren’t just a basketball team, they’re a movement, and we’re excited to be part of their journey.”

A Responsible, Community-First Approach

As part of the agreement, both Big Barrel and the Hawks have implemented clear guidelines to ensure responsible sponsorship, particularly when engaging with younger audiences.

• No alcohol-related branding on youth-sized merchandise or junior team uniforms.
• School and youth activations will focus solely on basketball development, with no alcohol promotion.
• Players will wear Hawks-branded training apparel for school visits where required.
• A strong emphasis on community engagement, including grassroots basketball initiatives and family-friendly events.

“We recognise the responsibility that comes with an alcohol related sponsorship in sport,” said Jarrod Kenny, General Manager of the Big Barrel Hawks. “We’ve taken proactive steps to ensure that this partnership is socially responsible while maximising the benefits for our fans, our players, and the wider Hawke’s Bay community.”

Building a Legacy On and Off the Court

For the Hawks, this local partnership with Big Barrel represents stability, investment, and a shared vision for long-term success.

“Having Hawke’s Bay businesses back us in this economic climate is no small feat. We see this as more than just a sponsorship, we see this as a partnership built on shared values and ambition,” said Sally Crown, Chairperson of the Hawks. “Big Barrel’s support ensures that we can continue to grow, compete, and inspire the next generation of basketball talent in Hawke’s Bay.”

The deal was brokered by FizzyPop, a leading marketing agency, ensuring alignment between the two brands.

“This partnership is a win-win,” said Tom Young, intermediary for the deal. “Big Barrel gains access to a highly engaged and hard-to-reach male audience, while the Hawks secure a committed long-term partner. It’s the start of something special, and we can’t wait to see the team take flight in 2025.”

The Road to 2025

With a refreshed brand, a fearless squad, and an unbreakable Hawks Whānau, the Big Barrel Hawks are ready to take on the 2025 Sal’s NBL season with passion, grit, and championship ambition.

Watch this space, because the Hawks are just getting started.

Big Barrel:- https://bigbarrel.co.nz

Hawks:- https://hawks.org.nz 

FizzyPop– https://FizzyPop.nz  

 

Big Barrel Marketing & Sponsorship Team

Palwinder Singh

Trevor Smith

Jess Riepen

Natasha Nordell

Hawks

Hawk Sally Crown

Jarrod Kenny

FizzyPop

Tom Young

Kat Robinson

 

ENDS

The Hawke’s Bay Hawks are thrilled to announce the signing of promising young talent, Luca Yates, for the 2025 Sal’s National Basketball League (NBL) season.

At just 20 years old, the 208 cm forward, Yates has gained valuable experience playing for the Illawarra Hawks in the Australian National Basketball League (ANBL). During the 2024 NBL1 North season, Yates played for the Mackay Meteors, playing a leading role in their championship run and delivering an impressive Finals performance.

Yates is currently supporting Illawarra Hawks in their ANBL playoff run, gaining invaluable postseason experience that will undoubtedly benefit him when he joins the Hawke’s Bay Hawks this season. His involvement in these high-stakes games will furhter his development, adding to the anticipation of his future with the Hawks.

Yates’ impressive combination of size, athleticism, and skill will be key assets to the Hawks’ roster. His ability to score, rebound, and defend positions him as an exciting player who will be crucial to the team’s bid for the 2025 SalsNBL title.

Hawks General Manager Jarrod Kenny shared his excitement about Yates’ arrival. “Luca is a talented young man with an exciting future ahead of him. He’s already achieved so much at a young age, and we believe Hawke’s Bay is the perfect place for him to continue his growth as a player. Our fans are going to love what he brings to the team and how he goes about his business.”

Sam Gruggen, who will be coaching Yates again, this time as his Head Coach spoke about his potential. “Luca is a special player. His size and versatility make him a matchup nightmare for opponents, and his work ethic is second to none. We’re excited to have him on board and look forward to seeing him develop further in our system.”

Yates expressed his enthusiasm about joining the Hawks for the 2025 season:“I’m really excited to join the Hawke’s Bay Hawks for the 2025 season. I’ve heard great things about the team and the fans and I can’t wait to arrive and get to work. This is a fantastic opportunity for me to grow as a player and I’m looking forward to a new experiance.”

Yates will arrive in Hawke’s Bay following the conclusion of the Illawarra Hawks’ season in the Australian NBL.

Yates joins fellow players Darnell Cowart, Campbell Scott, Lennox Singh, Isaac Allan, Maz Taylor, Kobe Kara, Harry Keighley, Ezrah Eagle, Clifton Bush III, Jacob Murphy, and Jackson Ball on the 2025 Hawks roster. Tickets for individual games can be found at hawks.flicket.co.nz. Be sure to secure your seats at Rodney Green Arenas to watch Yates and the Hawks in action during the 2025 season.

The Hawke’s Bay Hawks are excited to announce the signing of 26-year-old forward Darnell Cowart for the 2025 Sals National League Basketball Season.

Cowart, known for his physicality and rebounding prowess, brings a wealth of experience and a dominant presence in the paint. With the ability to put the ball on the floor offensively and create his own shot, Cowart will be a tough cover for opposing teams. 

Standing at 6’8″ and weighing 270 pounds, Cowart’s combination of size and skill allows him to excel in both forward positions, contributing as a scorer, rebounder, and defender. His time with Elitzur Yavne in 2024 saw him average 16.8 points per game with a field goal percentage of 56.1% and a free throw percentage of 88.2%. His powerful performances on both ends of the floor make him a valuable addition to the Hawks’ roster.

“We are thrilled to have Darnell join the team,” said Jarrod Kenny, General Manager of the Hawke’s Bay Hawks. “His experience internationally, combined with his size and skill set, makes him a great fit for our forward positions. We believe Darnell will be a major contributor to our success this upcoming season.”

Head Coach Sam Gruggen added, “Darnell brings an incredible level of energy and physicality that will elevate our team. His rebounding and scoring ability will provide us with another dimension, and his leadership on and off the court is something we’re looking forward to seeing. We are excited to watch him grow and contribute to our success.”

Cowart shared his excitement about joining the Hawks: “I can’t wait to join the Hawks and continue to build on my career in a competitive environment. This team is full of talented players, and I can’t wait to get started. I’m looking forward to the challenge ahead and leaving it all out on the floor.”

Cowart joins fellow players Campbell Scott, Lennox Singh, Isaac Allan, Maz Taylor, Kobe Kara, Harry Keighley, Ezrah Eagle, Clifton Bush III, Jacob Murphy, and Jackson Ball on the 2025 Hawks roster. Season memberships are  available, and tickets for individual games can be found at hawks.flicket.co.nz. Be sure to secure your seats at Rodney Green Arenas to watch Cowart and the Hawks in action during the 2025 season.

The Hawke’s Bay Hawks are excited to announce the signing of 20-year-old guard Campbell Scott for the 2025 season. Scott, a dynamic young player coming off a breakout season in 2024, known for his scoring ability and competivenes is ready to make an impact for the Hawks in 2025.

Scott has proven himself as one of New Zealand’s top emerging talents, with a strong background in both the 3×3 and traditional basketball formats. He was a key member of the New Zealand U23 Men’s 3×3 team, representing his country at the FIBA U23 3×3 World Cup and the 3×3 Nations League. His ability to perform under pressure, along with his strong leadership and versatility, makes him an invaluable addition to the Hawks’ roster.

In 2024, Scott also showcased his talent in the New Zealand NBL playing for the Manawatu Jets, where he averaged 10.3 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game. His impressive shooting percentages,scoring ability and his presence on the court will certainly engage the fans attention.

“We are thrilled to have Campbell join the team,” said Jarrod Kenny, General Manager of the Hawke’s Bay Hawks. “His experience in the 3×3 program and his impressive performances in the NBL make him a perfect fit at the point guard spot to provide leadership and direction for our squad. We believe Campbell will be a key contributor this upcoming season.”

Head Coach Sam Gruggen added, “Campbell brings a level of energy and skill that will elevate our team. His versatility gives us more options on the floor, and his work ethic is second to none. We’re excited to see him develop as part of our program and contribute to our success.”

Scott shared his excitement about joining the Hawks: “I’m stoked for the opportunity to continue growing as a player with the Hawks. It’s an amazing team, and I’m really looking forward to the upcoming season and the challenges it will bring. I’m excited to keep learning and improving, and I can’t wait to contribute to the team’s success.”

Scott joins fellow players Lennox Singh, Isaac Allan, Maz Taylor, Kobe Kara, Harry Keighley, Ezrah Eagle, Clifton Bush III, Jacob Murphy, and Jackson Ball on the 2025 Hawks roster. Season memberships are now available, and tickets for individual games are now available. Be sure to secure your seats at Rodney Green Arenas to watch Scott and the Hawks in action during the 2025 season.

Isaac Allan, a standout shooter from Napier Boys High School, has shown dedication and commitment during the preseason, positioning himself as a key contributor to the Hawks this season. 

Isaac’s impressive preseason development has been a testament to his hard work and focus. His commitment to improving his skills and elevating his game will make him an exciting player to watch when his opportunity arises this season. He is poised to have a big year ahead.

In addition to his basketball, Allan is also making waves as a rising star in softball. His achievements with the Maraenui Pumas Softball Club have earned him recognition as one of the most talented young players in the sport. Isaac’s ability to balance both basketball and softball demonstrates his versatility and determination, showcasing his potential in multiple athletic arenas.

“I’m excited to continue pushing myself both in basketball and softball,” said Isaac. “The preseason has been an opportunity to focus on my growth, and I’m looking forward to seeing where my hard work takes me this season.”

Jarrod Kenny, General Manager of the Hawke’s Bay Hawks, praised Isaac for his commitment and talent. “Isaac’s been great on and off the court from the start. He’s put in a strong preseason performance, and his ability to stretch the floor is a real weapon. We’re excited to see him grow throughout the season.”

As he continues to shine on the basketball court and softball diamond,  Allan is certainly one to watch in the coming years.

Allan joins Maz Taylor,  Kobe Kara, Harry Keighley, Ezrah Eagle, Clifton Bush lll, Jacob Murphy and Jackson Ball on the 2025 Hawks. Season memberships are available now, and tickets for individual games will be released soon. Be sure to secure your seats at Rodney Green Arenas to see Allan and the Hawks in action during the 2025 season.

Talented 15-year-old student-athlete Lennox Singh from Napier Boys’ High School, is poised to make his mark on the Hawks this upcoming season. Singh has quickly earned a reputation as one of the top young players in the region. His dedication to his craft and natural skill set have positioned him for success as he continues his basketball journey.

Singh has been a standout performer for the Napier Boys’ High School basketball teams, consistently demonstrating his versatility and leadership. His contributions were key to the team’s success at the 2024 Junior Secondary Schools Zone 3 tournament, where his skills were on full display. Last year he was a member of the Napier Boys High School team that placed second at Secondary School Nationals. Whether it’s on offense or defense, Singh’s ability to impact the game in multiple ways has made him a valuable member of the Hawks and will be a key part of the Hawks for years to come.

“We are excited to have Lennox with the team,” said Jarrod Kenny, General Manager of the Hawke’s Bay Hawks. “His natural talent, combined with his work ethic and hunger to learn, makes him a promising young player. We are looking forward to seeing how he develops and contributes to our team’s success, not just this season but with an eye on the future.”

Singh shared his excitement about his future in basketball: “I’m really excited for the opportunity to continue growing as a player. Being part of the Hawks over the summer has been such an amazing experience, and I’m looking forward to the challenge the season brings. I’m eager to keep learning and improving my game.”

Singh’s achievements at 15 already reflect his hard work and passion for the sport, and as he continues to progress, there’s no doubt he will be a force to reckon with in the years to come.

Singh joins Isaac Allan, Maz Taylor, Kobe Kara, Harry Keighley, Ezrah Eagle, Clifton Bush lll, Jacob Murphy and Jackson Ball on the 2025 Hawks. Season memberships are available now, and tickets for individual games will be released soon. Be sure to secure your seats at Rodney Green Arenas to see Singh and the Hawks in action during the 2025 season.

Maz Taylor, a rising star in New Zealand basketball, is set to make his mark with the Hawke’s Bay Hawks this season. Known for his explosive speed and natural scoring ability, Maz has quickly become a standout player. His journey to the professional league is not only a result of his own dedication but also part of the basketball legacy that runs deep in his family, with both his mother and uncle making lasting contributions to the sport. Now, it’s Taylor’s turn to shine with the Hawks.

Taylor’s impressive performances, including a standout role at the Secondary School Nationals with the Napier Boys’ High School team, have solidified his place as one of the top young players in the region. His leadership and ability to perform in high-pressure situations make him a valuable asset to the Hawks as they head into the season.

“We are thrilled to have Maz join the Hawks,” said Jarrod Kenny, General Manager of the Hawke’s Bay Hawks. “His talent, dedication, and ability to perform at a high level will be an exciting addition to the team. We are looking forward to seeing how he contributes to our success on the court.”

Taylor shared his excitement about joining the team: “I’m incredibly excited for this opportunity with the Hawks. Growing up surrounded by basketball, it’s a huge honor to be joining the Hawks. I’m looking forward to contributing to the team’s success and learning from the experienced players and coaches around me.”

Maz’s basketball career is deeply rooted in his family’s legacy. His mother, Kirstin Daly-Taylor, is a former international player and coach who competed for New Zealand in the 1994 FIBA World Championship and the 2000 Summer Olympics for the Tall Ferns as captain. Kirstin also coached the Hawke’s Bay Hawks, becoming one of the few women to coach a men’s team at the domestic level.

Maz’s uncle, Aidan Daly, played 18 seasons in the National Basketball League (NBL), primarily with the Hawke’s Bay Hawks. After retiring from playing, Aidan transitioned into coaching and is now serving as an assistant coach for the Hawks.

Maz Taylor’s selection to the Hawke’s Bay Hawks marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in his basketball career. His rise from a promising high school athlete to a professional player reflects his talent, hard work, and passion for the sport.

Taylor joins Kobe Kara, Harry Keighley, Ezrah Eagle, Clifton Bush lll, Jacob Murphy and Jackson Ball on the 2025 Hawks. Season memberships are available now, and tickets for individual games will be released soon. Be sure to secure your seats at Rodney Green Arenas to see Taylor and the Hawks in action during the 2025 season.

The Hawke’s Bay Hawks are proud to announce Total Energies New Zealand (TENZ) as the official Naming Rights Partner for their Sky Broadband Rapid League Team. Building on the strong partnership between TENZ and the Hawks, with TENZ having been Platinum Partners of the franchise for several seasons.

The Sky Broadband Rapid League is a fast-paced and innovative competition designed to captivate fans with its dynamic format. Introduced in the 2024 season, each game is made up of four 4-minute quarters, ensuring non-stop action and strategic intensity. Played prior to the NBL game the league also emphasises development and opportunity by allowing only the seven non-starting NBL players from each team to participate. Giving emerging talent a platform to shine in high-pressure scenarios.

Hawks General Manager Jarrod Kenny shared his excitement about the extended partnership. “Total Energies New Zealand has been a long-time supporter of the Hawks, and we couldn’t be happier to see them as the Naming Rights Partner for the Sky Broadband Rapid League. Their support of the team and their belief in what we’re building is invaluable. This partnership will ensure that our young local talent will have the opportunity to develop, while delivering high-energy basketball for our fans.”

Hawks Chair Sally Crown emphasised the importance of TENZ’s ongoing support:“We are incredibly grateful to have Total Energies New Zealand as part of the Hawks whānau. Their commitment to the franchise and their belief in our vision have been instrumental in our success both on and off the court. This expanded partnership is a testament to their dedication to basketball in Hawke’s Bay, and we’re excited to see our Rapid League team thrive with their support.”

Reuben Thickpenny, Director of TENZ expressed their enthusiasm for supporting this innovative format. “As keen Hawks supporters we are proud to be taking our  partnership with the Hawke’s Bay Hawks to the next level. Watching the Rapid League for the first time last season we felt that this fresh,  fast-paced competition aligns with our focus on innovation and energy. Supporting this league provides an opportunity to champion both the Hawks and the next generation of basketball talent. We can’t wait to see what this partnership will achieve in 2025.”

As part of the partnership, the Total Energies New Zealand logo will feature prominently throughout the Sky Broadband Rapid League, including on uniforms, digital platforms, and during game-day activations. Fans can also look forward to exclusive giveaways and promotions tied to this collaboration.

With the 2025 season on the horizon, the Hawks are poised to deliver another stellar year of basketball, with the continued support of TENZ ensuring that both the team and the Sky Broadband Rapid League reach new heights.

Season memberships are available now, and tickets for individual games will be released soon. Fans are encouraged to follow the Hawks and TENZ for all the latest updates and news.

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About the Hawke’s Bay Hawks
The Hawke’s Bay Hawks are a premier team in the Sal’s National Basketball League, representing Hawke’s Bay with pride and passion. Known for their commitment to community, the Hawks inspire the next generation of players through initiatives like Hawks in Schools and high-performance programs like Hawks LABs.

About Total Energies New Zealand (TENZ)
Total Energies New Zealand is a leader in energy innovation and sustainability, providing solutions that power industries and communities across the country. With a focus on excellence, TENZ supports initiatives that promote growth, innovation, and a brighter future for all.