The Taylor Hawks are gearing up to deliver a thrilling experience with the National League Basketball hitting Wairoa. On March 9th, the Hawks will not only run a clinic for tamariki and rangatahi but will also face off against the Tauranga Whai in two action-packed exhibition games.

Basketball fever in our northern region base of Wairoa has been on the rise, with participation rates increasing and a growing cohort of passionate Hawks supporters. Recognising this, the aim is to connect with fans who can’t make it to Napier for regular season games by bringing the Taylor Hawks directly to them.

“Playing a preseason game in Wairoa gives us a chance to test out the new NBL season format being introduced for 2024, but more importantly it’s an opportunity for us to connect with our regional community and supporters,” says Taylor Hawks General Manager Jarrod Kenny.

On March 9th, a skills clinic for local youngsters is scheduled to take place at Standring Park on Black Street, commencing at midday and concluding at 1:30 pm. Facilitated by the Taylor Hawks coaching staff and players, the clinic will encompass skill development, drills, and interactive games. This event also presents an excellent opportunity for the youth of Wairoa to meet their favourite players.

The new NBL format gives spectators two separate games each game day. Rapid League games will run prior to the SalsNBL. Wairoa will be the first Hawke’s Bay spectators to experience this double-header format with the Rapid League exhibition game commencing at 3.00 pm and the SalsNBL exhibition at 4.00 pm. A signing session will be held for fans to get signatures and photos following. 

While the Taylor Hawks look to engage more across the region, they are quick to acknowledge it takes support to add extra games like these. Taylor Hawks Chair Sally Crown adds, “We would like to thank Wairoa District Council and Sport Hawke’s Bay for their assistance in helping us bring the game to town and making both the clinics and entry to the games free.”

Adding another piece to the team puzzle the Taylor Hawks announce the signing of American centre Josh Roberts to their 2024 lineup. Roberts brings athleticism, energy and an impressive field goal percentage.  Playing with Hawks Head Coach, Sam Gruggen, and the Cairns Taipans he is shooting the ball at 67 percent from the field.  

Born and Raised in Troy, Alabama, Roberts spent his college years in Manhattan, New York. In his senior year at Manhattan College, Roberts showcased his prowess on the court, averaging a career-high 12.2 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game. His stellar performance earned him the prestigious title of Metro Atlantic Athletic Collage (MAAC) Defensive Player of the Year, along with All-MAAC honours. Roberts left an indelible mark on Manhattan College, setting the single-season record with an incredible 70.2 field goal percentage and ranking eighth in school history with 90 career blocks.

Roberts said “I’m very excited to join the Taylor Hawks as I have heard some amazing things about the SalsNBL and in particular Hawke’s Bay itself. The chance to continue developing throughout my professional career is a huge reason as to why I chose the Hawks”. 

Since joining the Taipans, Roberts has had several standout performances including setting a career-high 22 points in a spectacular road win against Melbourne United. Known for his ability to dominate around the rim, attack the basket, and crash the offensive boards, Roberts is poised to become a fan favourite with the Taylor Hawks faithful.

“We are very excited to bring Josh to Hawke’s Bay, not only because he will be a fantastic teammate but because he will be a difficult cover with his above the rim athleticism as well as his defensive capabilities” says Gruggen, Head Coach of the Taylor Hawks.

Roberts, with his infectious energy and relentless hustle, is gearing up to make his mark with the Hawks and elevate the team’s performance in the upcoming season. 

Fueled by an outstanding performance in the 3×3 Cup that earned him his spot in the coveted All-Star 4, Jackson Ball is set to make his Taylor Hawks SalsNBL debut. The 15 year old Napier Boys High School student is one of the best young players in the country. Ball is an exceptional talent that has a love for the game and a desire to improve daily. 

Ball’s journey during the 2023 New Zealand 3×3 cup was nothing short of sensational, standing out as a consistent force for the Hawks from start to finish, seeing him placed among the top 10 players in total scoring and delivering game-winning shots. Amidst a whirlwind year, Ball not only led Napier Boys’ in their quest for a National Championship, but also proudly represented New Zealand at the under 15 Asia Pacific Cup, securing a commendable second place.

“Jackson’s impressive performance in the 2023 3×3 Cup was a direct result of his work ethic, willingness to learn, and determination to improve. He is an exciting young talent who will no doubt rise to the challenge of the NZNBL,” remarks Assistant Coach Kaine Hokianga.

Taylor Hawks General Manager Jarrod Kenny said, “Jackson has a maturity and understanding of the game well beyond his years. His love for the game and pursuit of excellence is at the point where he needs to be told to stop training and have a rest. I’m looking forward to watching Jackson this season, not only during the Rapid League, but also when his name is called in the SalsNBL.” 

“Becoming a member of the Taylor Hawks has always been a goal of mine, so I feel very excited and privileged to be a part of the team this season. I am determined to use this opportunity to improve myself on and off the court and learn as much as I can from my teammates and my coaches.” Jackson Ball on joining the Taylor Hawks for the 2024 SalsNBL.

 

Since joining the Taylor Hawks in 2021 after his final year at Napier Boys, Napier’s own Kobe Kara has made significant strides. His continued commitment to off-season training, personal development and an impressive showing at 2023 3×3 Cup have instilled great confidence in the Taylor Hawks management team.  Assistant Coach Kaine Hokianga says, , “Kobe’s dedication to developing all facets of his game during this off-season has helped to continue the progress he displayed in the 3×3 Cup. We look forward to seeing this progress continue in the 2024 SalsNBL.” 

Proving to be  a  reliable player on both ends of the floor, Kara, 21, is emerging as a considered leader within the Hawks ranks.  “I’m extremely proud of Kobe and what he has accomplished over the past year both on and off the court. To have him on our team as a leader and an example of what hard work and dedication looks like is invaluable for us,” states Hawks General Manager Jarrod Kenny.

Employing an attitude of optimism and willingness to attack every obstacle he comes across has seen his confidence and skills steadily develop each season. The coaching staff is eager to witness Kara’s continued growth and contribution to the team’s success.

“Being from the Bay and being able to represent my home town means alot to me and my family. I’m excited for the season and will make the most of the opportunity I’ve been given,” said Kara.

Momentum continues to build in the Hawks camp with the  signing of Keanu Rasmussen. A graduate of Basketball Australia’s Centre of Excellence in 2020, this talented guard is eligible for the 2025 NBA Draft. Known for his scoring prowess, Rasmussen is an athletic guard who excels at shooting and driving to the rim. He also possesses strong playmaking ability, always looking to set up his teammates for success.

 

“Keanu is a very exciting and talented basketball player. He recently came back from college in America and is currently a Development Player with the Adelaide 36ers in the Australian NBL. Keanu will fit perfectly into our style and he is excited to get to Hawke’s Bay and be a part of the community”, says Coach, Sam Gruggen.

 

Rasmussen has showcased his skills at various levels, representing South Australia in the under-18 and under-20 Australian National Championships, as well as being a member of the under-20 NBA Global Team. During his time with the Sabres in the Central NBL1 competition in Australia, the 20-year-old guard displayed an impressive stat line, averaging 16.5 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game. Standing at 188 cm with a robust physique, coupled with exceptional quickness and shooting proficiency, Rasmussen is poised to make a significant impact at the NBL level.

 

Keanu who was born and raised in Adelaide, has New Zealand Citizenship via his father, affording him the opportunity to play as a local. Keanu said “I am super excited to be coming to Hawke’s Bay this season. From talking to the staff throughout the process Hawke’s Bay sounds like a great place for me to develop both on and off the court”.    

 

“I am thrilled to welcome Keanu to the Hawks for the upcoming 2024 season. We have received a lot of positive feedback from experienced players about Keanu’s ability and his character. Keanu’s talent and his commitment to his development played a pivotal role in our decision to bring him on board,” expressed Jarrod Kenny.

 

Rasmussen joins Jordan Ngatai as the two Taylor Hawks players signed so far for the 2024 SalsNBL season. Keanu will join the team at the conclusion of the Adelaide 36ers NBL season.

 

Since free agency began, the start of when player negotiations are allowed to commence, back in November, Jordan Ngatai’s signature has been a priority for the Hawks. Making the move north for the 2023 season, Ngatai’s addition to the Hawks was as expected. A consummate professional on and off the court, his leadership and the example he sets for our young local talent was a major reason his signature was a key. 

 

“I felt like I made the best decision for my whānau and me. I’ve worked with Gruggs (Hawks Coach Sam Gruggen) in the past so I’m really looking forward to the upcoming season,” says Ngatai.

 

Hawks General Manager Jarrod Kenny comments, “Jordan is an exceptional individual, both on and off the court. He embodies the values and attitude that the Hawks aim to represent. As we prioritise nurturing young local talent, having Jordan as a role model is truly invaluable. It allows them to witness firsthand his dedication to training, self-care, and game preparation on a daily basis.”

 

Ngatai’s performance in 2023 was outstanding. He averaged an impressive 16.8 points per game, doubling his previous season’s record. In a remarkable outing against the Manawatu Jets he scored a career-high 47 points. Ngatai’s success as a premier guard spans over a decade, with four Championships to his name. His exceptional talent was recognised when he was named to the All-Star 5 at the 2020 NBL Showdown, leading the Nuggets to a championship victory. Additionally, he had a successful stint in the Australian NBL, playing eight seasons, including six with the Breakers, where he enjoyed championship success in 2014-15. He has represented the Tall Blacks in over 60 appearances since his debut in 2013. Currently, Ngatai is showcasing his skills in Finland, playing for Tampereen Pyrintö Basketball.

 

“Bringing Ngatai back was a high priority for the club. He upholds our values and really shares in our vision for the club moving forward. The community loved having Ngatai and his family in Hawke’s Bay. I hope the community are just as excited as the club to watch him in this upcoming season”, says Gruggen.

 

With Ngatai now signed, we look to surround him with quality players with similar characteristics. 

“The Taylor Hawks are thrilled to announce our Head Coach for the Sal’s National Basketball 2024 season, Sam Gruggen. Sam has been involved in basketball for the last two decades, spending time in all aspects of the game. The last three years Gruggen  has been an assistant coach in the NBL for the Sydney Kings and currently with the Cairns Taipans”.

Gruggen, a highly sought after coach, brings a wealth of experience from both a coaching and player development perspective.

Most recently, Sam has spent his time as an assistant coach in the Australian National Basketball League with the Sydney Kings and the Cairns Taipans. He has been a major part of the Taipan’s recent success, helping them become championship contenders last season, only to fall short to eventual winners the Kings.

Gruggen has been a key figure in the development of some of Australia’s best up and coming basketballers. Player development was a key priority in his roles as Head Coach of High Performance at Basketball New South Wales and as the Southern Development Officer at Basketball Tasmania. With proven results of developing players skill sets and their basketball IQ, the Hawks management and governors believe this will be extremely beneficial to not only the team, but to basketball in Hawke’s Bay.

“I’m extremely excited to join Hawke’s Bay Hawks and I’d like to thank Jarrod Kenny and the board for putting their trust in me. Their vision of player development (both in Hawke’s Bay and around New Zealand) along with their commitment to building a successful and hard working roster aligns perfectly with my coaching philosophy. The organisation has been working diligently putting together a roster that has a great mix of young and talented players with experienced veterans. I’m excited to get over to Hawke’s Bay and be a part of this supportive and passionate community,” shares Gruggen.

Taylor Hawks General Manager Jarrod expressed his enthusiasm about Coach. “We are thrilled to have Sam lead our team next season. His drive for excellence in every facet of the game is impressive. We are confident that this characteristic will inspire and elevate our entire team and staff, helping them reach their full potential. Sam’s commitment to player development aligns seamlessly with our vision of building a team that our community is proud of.”

“The Taylor Hawks would like to thank and acknowledge Keith Price for his outstanding service, dedication and commitment to the club over his tenure as Chair of the Board. Keith has made significant contributions to the Hawks and the Hawke’s Bay Region leaving a lasting legacy”.

Under Keith’s leadership the Hawks have achieved significant growth in crowd numbers, sponsorship levels and he has built strong relationships with community and key stakeholders. In his tenure Keith has taken the club from the brink of bankruptcy to regular championship contenders. His vision and relentless commitment to excellence have played a pivotal role in shaping our success so far.

The contribution Keith and his family have made to the Hawks has been invaluable and we wish him the very best.

Keith will always remain part of the Hawks whānau. 

In light of this transition, we are pleased to announce the elevation of our current board member, Sally Crown, to the position of Board Chair. Sally has been an integral part of our organization, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to the table from her business and governance backgrounds. Her commitment to developing our strategy, combined with her leadership skills and community connections, make her the ideal candidate to lead our board during this important next phase of our journey.

“I would never leave the Hawks unless it was in a good state to hand over. I’m proud to say we are there. Now is the right time to pass the reins to Sally, with the full support of all other board members,” says Keith. 

Sally’s appointment reflects our commitment to ensuring stability and maintaining the high standards of governance that our stakeholders expect. We are confident that under Sally’s leadership, our organisation will continue to thrive and reach new heights.

“The Hawks are a fantastic asset for our region. It is a privilege to take on this role, and to continue to build on the foundation Keith has set. As a board we are excited to explore opportunities for the franchise and work closely with our supporters, stakeholders and community to deliver something that we remain proud of,” adds Sally.

A week on from The New Zealand Basketball 3×3 Cup which was held in Invercargill, showcasing 126 of the best players from across the country, with over 170 games played over the 4 day event. This year the addition of 16 international games were played in a trans-tasman rivalry between the New Zealand Tall Blacks and Tall Ferns vs the Australian Gangurrus. 

The Taylor Hawks produced a strong showing finishing the tournament in 7th place, in the top half of the draw.

The real success lay in the emergence of local talents from Hawke’s Bay, namely Jackson Ball, Zoram Smiler, and Kobe Kara. Both Ball, Napier Boys High School, and Smiler, Hastings Boys High School, made their debut for the Taylor Hawks, whilst Kara was given the opportunity to lead the team.

“Watching the boys grow in confidence and begin to have that self belief, was the best part of the trip for me. Knowing the work that these three have put into their craft and the abilities they have, seeing them competing and representing not only themselves but their whanau and the region was something to be proud of. The way they carried themselves and competed in every moment is what it means to be a Hawk” says Jarrod Kenny.

Ball’s outstanding tournament was recognised in his selection for the All Star 4. From start to finish Ball was a standout for the Hawks. Finishing  in the top 10 players in total scoring, while making several game winning shots. It’s been a busy year for Ball, leading Napier Boys in their quest for a National Championship and representing New Zealand at the under 15 Asia Pacific Cup, where they finished 2nd to Australia.  

The All Star 4 was rounded out by Ethan Rusbatch, Rangimarie Dougall-Mita and the Most Valuable Player, from the 3×3 Cup Champions the Canterbury Rams, Kaia Isaac. 

Looking to build the up and coming generation of local high performance ballers The Taylor Hawks are taking some of the best young talent the Bay has to Invercargill, for the third year participating in Basketball New Zealand’s (BBNZ) 3X3 Cup. Starting October 25, the tournament runs over four days, with the first three being a round-robin, culminating in finals on Saturday. 

The 3×3 format is an ideal space to look to build skill and depth for the Hawks, with a number of participating franchises signaling the tournament to feature key development talent with a number of NBL key players currently playing off-shore or unavailable. This plays into the Hawks new strategy well. This exciting young Hawks team features two high schoolers, Jackson Ball from Napier Boys High School and Zoran Smiler from Hastings Boys High School. These two talented young men lead the charge of the next generation of Hawke’s Bay ballers. Smiler, a crafty guard that can get to his spots on the floor to finish or create opportunities for others will thrive in the 3×3 format with the extra space it provides. Ball is a flat out scorer that can get it done in all three ways. The team is captained by ex Napier Boys star Kobe Kara, now a young vet that brings size and strength to the team. Kara’s ability to defend and play multiple positions will be a pivotal part of the Hawks Success at the 3X3 Cup. Rounding out the Hawks team is Jarrod Kenny. Kenny returns to the 3X3 cup for his second season, providing stability for the Hawks; being able to guide the younger players.

The tournament will bring together 24 top men’s and women’s teams with players taking part in 178 games, creating a highly competitive environment that promises exciting matchups across the event. Every game of the 2023 3×3 Cup will be broadcast live on Sky Sport,as an initiative by Basketball New Zealand to promote and elevate the presence of 3×3 basketball in the country.

Denhym Brooke, a member of the Taylor Hawks team this season, will be representing New Zealand at the event, playing in an 8 game Trans-Tasman series against Australia.