The Hawks have defied critics and bookmakers to be in first place, having won four of five games.

Rather than settle for being competitive in the 2009-10 season, Wollongong's impressive start has provided sufficient evidence that a championship is not beyond reach.

The Hawks are averaging about 3500 fans at home games and are hoping their early-season success will win over more supporters.

"The fans have gotten right behind us in all four of our home games and we want to see that again," Wollongong captain Mat Campbell said.

"Our fans are taking it to another level this season. They are really getting into the game.

"The crowd is our sixth man. When the fans are loud and cheering we feel like we're unbeatable on our home court.

"If we continue to get crowds like we've had this season and they continue to make noise like they have been, WIN Entertainment Centre is going to be the toughest place to play in the league. We want the fans to help us turn our home court into a fortress.

"When we play with confidence and we're all working hard together on court, we're a team that is definitely up there to challenge for the title this season. There's a long way to go, but if we continue to hold our home court advantage and sneak some road wins, we're going to be up there at the business end of the season.

"All of us are playing with a great sense of pride for the community, and to see the fans turn up week in and week out and be that strength behind us is a great feeling."

Tickets for tonight's clash are available from www.ticketek.com.au or by phoning 132 849.

Tickets are also available today from the WIN Entertainment Centre box office.

Tickets start from $12 for children, $15 for adults and $50 for a family of four.

"We are playing exciting basketball and we want everyone to get a chance to see what we can do on the court," Campbell said.

"We encourage fans to get a ticket and be there (tonight). The type of basketball we're playing is something fans want to see."