Tag: Basketball

New import set to help Hawks Soar

MEDIA RELEASE – IMMEDIATE RELEASE

“Hawks Bolster the big man department with athletic Agee touching down in the Bay.”

The search for a player to help the Hawks post stocks has concluded with talented, athletic and versatile post Tajuan Agee joining the team. A native of Chicago “Juan” as he is affectionally known just touched down in the Bay, dropped his luggage, met the team and joined the group for the trip to the South Island.

Agee has recently completed a stint in the highly regarded German Pro A league with Rasta Vechta, after joining them with a 2-7 record, his impact helped the team finish the season strongly at 16-16. This stint in Germany followed a rookie season in Europe for club Balkan who played in the FIBA Euro Cup and Basketball Champions league and the domestic Bulgarian league, where Agee averaged 12 pts & 8 rebs in 21 mins of play.

“What really stood out was how mature and easy to talk to Juan was in the recruiting process. He understands team dynamics and has played on deep rosters, so he is happy to play whatever role is required for us to be successful. Speaking with his coach from Germany they were wrapped with what he brought to the locker room and court and wouldn’t hesitate to have him back (always a good sign). Once over the jet lag and with a few weeks with the group we’re really looking forward to what Juan can bring.” Coach Mick Downer

“After hearing the team reached the finals in recent years I jumped at the opportunity knowing it is a great team and to be that piece that can help win it all by playing my role. I’ve played with veteran teams before, and hope that I can be that energy guy that lifts the team,” Agee added.
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3 Quick Facts about Tajuan Agee:

  1. The eldest of 6 siblings
  2. Love’s animals and asked if NZ has any spiders
  3. I have Jamaican heritage

2021/22 Highlights:
Career Statistics:

Harris returns and is hungry for Hawks Success

Hyrum Harris Highlights
A rising star on the NZ basketball landscape Harris has already had a big year and is fuelled for more success both individually and for the Taylor Hawks. Currently plying his trade for the Adelaide 36ers in the Australian NBL and off a recent stint with the Tall Blacks at the FIBA World Cup Qualifiers, his career trajectory is on the up and up.

A key member of the 2021 Hawks team that was oh so close to a championship, it was an easy decision for Harris to return to the club in what will be his 3rd season with the team and his 8th in the Sal’s NBL. He’s closely connected with so many of the players from last season that shared that journey, is excited about having a full time professional coach with Downer’s experience and he and his partner Takiri just love it here in the Bay.

“I just can’t wait to get back to the Bay and play with the boys again. I love the team we are putting together, we will be versatile and deep. We have the tools to win it and I look forward to doing whatever I can to help the team be successful. It’s the best place for me to be as I continue my basketball journey and grow as a player.”

 Harris will join his team mates after fulfilling his commitments with the Adelaide 36ers.

Local legend lacing them up again

Season seventeen as a professional athlete, a decade long career with the national team, a member of the Hawks 2006 championship team, are a just a few achievements in a long, long list of the Taylor Hawks legend Everard Bartlett.

Everard Bartlett Highlights

The ultimate team mate, competitor, a kaiārahi to the younger players, and don’t forget a lights out shooter. The cagey veteran will return to the hardwood in 2022 desperate to help the team returning to championship glory after a nail biting 2021 campaign that was oh so close. It’s fair to say the miles covered as a professional player far outweigh the miles remaining but there is definitely fuel in the tank and a burning desire to help lead Bay Hawks to success this season. Everard shares his thoughts on the why’s and how’s he can continue to help the Taylor Hawks as he enters into his fourteenth season with the club.

“It’s simple, I want to be a part of bringing a championship back to the Bay and seeing it hang alongside the 2006 one. At my age and with this team, being able to play a role that can help us be successful is a big motivation. I couldn’t do this without the support of my coaches and team mates but most importantly my whānau. My wife is our families rock and her support is the biggest reason I can continue to do what I love, without her this isn’t possible.”

Bailey bolsters Hawks frontcourt

The man they call Q, Quintin Bailey will bolster the Hawks this season specifically battling alongside Jordan Hunt in the front court. The athletic big man is a welcome addition to Hawks and like Hunt was highly sort after by multiple teams during free agency before agreeing to terms with the Hawks.

Bailey, from Stratford, Taranaki has played the past two seasons with the Canterbury Rams after completing a successful collegiate career. First starting at highly regarded Californian Junior College Citrus, before finishing his college career as a key starter for NAIA powerhouse , John Brown Golden Eagles. Going 28-5 in his senior year.

Known as a hard-working, tough, and great culture guy the versatile forward / post shares his reasons for joining the Taylor Hawks for this season.

“I’m stoked to sign with the Taylor Hawks for the upcoming NZNBL season and I’m looking forward to getting to work with Mick and fellas. I felt the Hawks provided a great environment for me to further grow as a player both on and off the court; ultimately, helping me to get one step closer to my potential. Can’t wait to get started!”

Quintin is an exciting part of the next wave of young kiwi talent and is the fourth signing for the Taylor Hawks in what so far has been a prosperous free agency. We have also just released Season Memberships at “Early Bird” prices. Head to our website to secure your tickets to all nine home games and support Quintin and the boys in season 2022.

2022 SEASON MEMBERSHIPS

Pivotal post player Hunt back for the Hawks in 2022

Highly skilled and versatile post player Jordan Hunt will return for his 2nd season with Taylor Hawks in 2022. A Championship Winner and Grand Finals MVP in 2020 with the Otago Nuggets, Hunt was a key part of last year’s championship game team. Jordan is excited about the opportunity to help the team with an even stronger impact in 2022.

Jordan Hunt Video Highlights

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Hawks secure new leadership under international coach

“Taylor Hawks to Soar Under New Leadership in 2022”

Hawke’s Bay, Nov 11th 2021 – It’s been a busy and fruitful off season for the Taylor Hawks. The club has made some key changes to both our front office and court side leadership.
We aim to further capitalise on the teams recent on court successes, and improve the capacity to help foster growth within the Bay’s basketball community with this exciting appointment.

Full Media Release Here – MD MEDIA RELEASE