The Hawks are excited to announce that Taylor Corp, a world wide exporter of New Zealand apples, will continue to be the naming rights sponsor for the team for the eighth consecutive season. This partnership, which began seven seasons ago, was a crucial lifeline for the team when they faced the threat of bankruptcy, and it has since grown into a successful partnership.

Taylor Corp’s unwavering commitment to the Hawks has been nothing short of remarkable. Throughout these seven seasons, they have provided invaluable support, ensuring the team’s success and fostering a deep sense of community spirit. This renewed agreement reaffirms their dedication to the Hawks, demonstrating their shared vision for the club’s growth and success.

In the face of adversity, Taylor Corp has demonstrated their true character. The Hawke’s Bay region, like many others, was severely impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle, and the challenges were immense. However, Taylor Corp’s response was nothing short of heroic. They deployed their resources, including a helicopter, to rescue people stranded on their roofs during the rising floodwaters, saving numerous lives.

“As an organisation, we are thrilled to have Taylor Corp remain a part of our whānau,” said Board Chair, Sally Crown. “Their contributions over the past several years have been invaluable, and they stood by us when we needed them most. Now, we return that support during their time of need.”

This renewed partnership is not just about sponsorship; it’s about solidarity and shared purpose. The Hawks are committed to working closely with Taylor Corp to assist them in raising the necessary funds to continue to be the naming rights sponsor. It’s a testament to the strength of this partnership, reflecting the mutual trust and support between the two entities.

The Hawks and Taylor Corp share a deep bond that extends beyond the basketball court. This renewed sponsorship marks a new chapter in their journey together, demonstrating the power of unity, even in the face of adversity. 

The team looks forward to an exciting and successful season ahead, with Taylor Corp’s name proudly emblazoned across the uniform as a symbol of resilience, community, and shared vision.

Please welcome back Kobe Kara for the 2023 SalsNBL season.

Kobe has been a part of the Hawks since 2021, when he joined the team after his final year at Napier Boys. Kobe’s game has come along in leaps and bounds this season. Making significant changes physically in the off season, has seen him hit the floor running this year. Kobe continues to be a reliable player on both ends of the floor. Not only has he improved physically, but the biggest change has been his mental development. No longer a shy young teenager, Kobe believes in his abilities and proves himself on the floor everyday. Kobe’s attitude and willingness to do all the little things makes him a favourite amongst his team mates.

“Coming back for another year of development. It was an easy call for me to make. He’s put the work in through the off-season and has pushed himself through a very tough preseason. Not only I, but the coaching staff and players have been impressed with what Kobe has shown. I hope he continues to work hard to stay ready”, Everard.

Jacob is one of our promising young up and coming players. Having come through the Hawke’s Bay Basketball system Jacob is no stranger to Hawks Fans. Jacob plays with a lot of speed and passion. His athletic ability and 3 point shooting are among his greatest strengths. Although not overly tall for a basketball player, Jacob’s hunger for the offensive rebound gives his team a number of extra possessions in a game that is often decided by rebounds. Also working towards his Plumbing apprenticeship, Jacob has found the time to get himself in the best shape of his career, dominating in preseason drills. 

“Knocking on the door for the last few years, this is a big year for him to show that he is capable of moving up the roster in the future. He has worked hard up to this point, now it’s his chance to make the most of this opportunity and be ready when called upon”, Everard. 

Josh has made his way North this season to the Taylor Hawks from the Wellington saints.

Josh has been described as a player from the same mould as former Wellington Saint, Damien Ekenasio. Josh does all the little things well, he will be a spark off the bench, coming in bringing energy, fighting for rebounds, setting hard screens and diving on the ball. Josh is a competitor, turning up everyday and leaving it all on the floor. His hunger to get better everyday is contagious and has already had an effect on his team mates.

Hawks fans will love the energy and hustle Josh brings to the team, weather that be on the court, sidelines or in the community. He will quickly become a fan favourite!

“He impressed me enough in his 2022 preseason games against the Hawks whilst he was playing for the Saints. A humble and coachable kid that gives 100% in training & games. He brings physicality that we need and a willingness to play defense.” Everard. 

Derone has been an integral part of the Taylor Hawks for a number of seasons now. He plays with a level of creativity and excitement that fans love to watch.

Derone’s offensive skill set is a tough cover for opposing guards. His ability to create contact and finish through it, often drawing the foul, gives teams headaches trying to stop. He is at his best offensively when he has an aggressive mindset, and this flows over to the defensive end for him.

“I’m very happy to lock in Derone for another year. My opinion, he’s one of the league’s best one-on-one offensive guards. He’s been giving defenses trouble for some time now and I’m glad he’s on our side. He’s an instinctual player that thrives in open space. I have no doubt he’ll give Hawk fans a lot to cheer about this season.” Everard. 

We are thrilled to announce the signing of Tall Black wing Jordan Ngatai! 

Jordan brings with him a wealth of  knowledge, not only of this league, but also that gained from nearly a decade of international experience. He made his international debut in 2013 and has since gone on to  represent the Tall Blacks at the 2017 Asia Cup, 2018 Commonwealth Games, and the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup. Jordan was a member of the New Zealand Breakers from 2014-20 before moving to Cairns for the 2021 and 2022 NBL seasons.

Jordan may be a familiar face to many Hawks fans as he spent most of his time in this league playing for our biggest rivals, the Wellington Saints. He will be a huge presence on and off the court and we can’t wait to see him put on a hawks jersey this season.

“We are super excited to add Ngatai to our core group here at Hawks. He comes with a wealth of experience at the highest levels, playing multiple years in ANBL as well as putting on the Black and White National Jersey. I’ve seen Ngatai’s growth from his D.P years whilst I was at Breakers. I know what he is capable of and his willingness to do whatever it takes to be great is a testament to his success this far”. Everard Bartlett.

https://www.nzherald.co.nz/hawkes-bay-today/news/in-the-basket-a-major-signing-for-the-hawks/PN5EOXBCMZCDZFYVO5O36NXC6E/

Hyrum Harris will be returning for the 2023 Season! 

Hyrum may be our most important singing this season. His ability to affect the game on both ends of the floor is special.

Hyrum’s biggest asset to the Hawks is his character. He brings a work ethic second to none, an uncompromising physical style of play and an actions speak louder than words style of leadership. His physical attributes of size, speed and agility, along with his relentless, gritty, hard working attitude make him the perfect mold to build what the 2023 Taylor Hawks want to be about.

“To have Hyrum commit with us for another season is a massive boost to the morale of the coaching staff & front office. He has been a standout leader since his arrival to Hawkes Bay. I personally have enjoyed playing alongside him for the last couple years, and now have the opportunity to be in a position to really help him reach some of his goals. He’s a player that will help me be a better coach and I help him be a better player. Hawks fans should be excited about the return of Hyrum Harris, especially his whanau that whakapapa back to Ngati Kahungunu.” Everard.

Link to article below.

https://www.nzherald.co.nz/hawkes-bay-today/news/wegf/RWTOAJABUBD53I7V3DYHUWLAHY/