Wollongong coach Gordie McLeod might have unwittingly unearthed a new hero, with guard Tyson Demos’ clutch fourth quarter performance sealing the Hawks’ 86-80 triumph over the Sydney Kings in Friday night’s trial at the Snakepit.
The Hawks went into the game without a recognised point guard due to the unavailablity of playmakers Rhys Martin (ankle injury) and Gary Ervin (still awaiting immigration clearance).
But Demos and captain Mat Campbell ably shared the point guard duties, with Demos racking up 12 points, most of which he scored in crunch time when the game was tight.
Signed as Wollongong’s 11th man, the former Illawarra junior is providing a compelling case for inclusion on the 10-man playing roster.
The Hawks’ best player was Tim Coenraad, who came off the bench to score a game-high 31 points.
Scores were tied at 74-all before the home side pulled away in the final minutes to improve their pre-season record to 2-0.
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