Brisbane are reportedly at long odds to make a comeback and it remains to be seen if battlers Cairns survive.

But while uncertainty might surround the submissions of some clubs, Wollongong are definitely in.

Despite NBL officials remaining tight-lipped ahead of Sengstock's announcement, it is understood the Hawks' bid has received a stamp of approval from the commission overseeing the selection process.

Earlier this week Hawks chief executive Wayne Morris was upbeat about the club's prospects of retaining their place in Australia's premier basketball competition.

"We put in a strong submission and there's every reason to be optimistic about our chances," Morris said in Tuesday's Mercury.

"We had increasing crowds ... we've shown the league we have a sustainable financial model and we're hoping to continue building our corporate support."

This time last year Wollongong and their followers endured an anxious wait before the club eventually secured a spot in the 2009-10 competition.

News that they will be part of next season's format will be met with relief, not to mention renewed optimism that the Hawks can pursue another top-four finish at the very least.

Meantime, Hawks fans hope they haven't seen the last of Tywain McKee.

Wollongong's do-it-all import missed the second half of the season with a back injury.

But he is making a steady recovery and believes he has become more of a student of the game.

"I've been watching a lot of basketball and seeing it over and over, and I see it better and see more things," McKee said.

"The only thing now is that I want to play so bad and put the things I'm learning into place. But I realised my body was telling me I needed some time off ...

"I used to get little nagging injuries and just shake it off, but now I know I needed a break.

"I just wish it had come after the play-offs."