The Wollongong Hawks have received a timely shot in the arm with new import Malcolm Grant cleared to play in today’s round 16 duel with NBL titleholders New Zealand at WIN Entertainment Centre.
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Hawks management got word of Grant’s immigration clearance this morning, allowing him to make his debut in Wollongong colours against the competition leaders.
The 24-year-old former University of Miami star will bolster the Hawks’ depleted backcourt after recent season-ending knee injuries to Rhys Martin and Lance Hurdle.
In another boost for the ailing Hawks, guard Tyson Demos will suit up for today’s game after initially believing he would be sidelined with a knee injury suffered at training on Thursday.
But scans cleared him of major damage and Demos is now determined to play.
Grant arrived in Australia last Monday and trained with the Hawks all week.
The 185cm point guard’s teammates had all but resigned themselves to being without his services today, but his last-minute clearance has given coach Gordie McLeod a much-needed lift.
Despite losing six straight games and eight of their past nine, the Hawks remain in fourth spot.
They have lost two previous meetings with the reigning champions by a combined three points and are banking on strong home-town support on Australia Day.
The game tips off at 5pm and tickets are available from the WEC Box Office from midday.
