BASKETBALL
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Help is on the way for the undermanned Wollongong Hawks.
The Hawks will unveil American import Kevin Tiggs as their latest signing at today’s training session at the Snakepit.
Born and raised in Michigan, the 29-year-old swingman was recruited as a replacement for former import Durrell Summers, who lasted two weeks before controversially requesting a release.
‘‘After a disrupted pre-season we are looking forward to Kevin joining the group and allowing the team to settle into the season ahead,’’ Hawks general manager Stuart Wilkinson said.
Tiggs spent last season playing in the Ukrainian league and has also had brief stints in France and Cyprus.
Standing 193cm and weighing 95kg, he was the Division II College Player of the Year in 2007 after leading Mott Community College to the national championship.
After two seasons starring with Mott, Tiggs transferred to Division I college East Tennessee State University for his final two years.
He averaged 21.4 points, 4.8 rebounds and 2.1 steals as a senior, leading ETSU to the NCAA tournament.
Hawks coach Gordie McLeod and his assistant coaches Eric Cooks and Matt Flinn have virtually worked around the clock to find a second import after Summers quit the team less than two weeks ago.
‘‘It’s been a difficult process in a short time frame and the guys have worked hard to come up with a solution,’’ Wilkinson said.
‘‘We’re working on the advice and referrals of coaches in the [United] States, who say he’ll be a good fit for our team, both with ability and attitude.
McLeod hopes Tiggs receives immigration clearance in time for Saturday night’s road meeting with Adelaide.
Wollongong were thrashed by 19 in their season-opener against titleholders New Zealand.