Hawks development squad guard Kyle Adnam believes his experience in the highly-competitive Victorian junior leagues has prepared him well for his bid to become a full-time NBL player.

Adnam only arrived in Wollongong late in the preseason and quickly impressed Wollongong coach Gordie McLeod with his playmaking skills and willingness to learn.

A member of the Adelaide 36ers' development squad last season, the 20-year-old notched his first minutes as a Hawk in Sunday's home loss to New Zealand.

Adnam is a graduate of the strong Victorian junior system, which has historically produced the best players in the country.

"There's really good rivalries and it pushes you," he said.

"There's no nights off, even in under 14s. You're playing against some of the best kids in the country every time you play. Not that the other states don't have great players, but you've just got that constant competition."

Adnam isn't the only ex-36er with the Hawks this season. Gary Ervin was part of Adelaide's grand final team in 2013-14.

"I loved my time there," Adnam said.

"Playing with Gary has taught me a lot."