BASKETBALL
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Targeting a second import will become the primary focus of new Illawarra Hawks coach Rob Beveridge after long-serving big man Larry Davidson re-signed with the club on Thursday.
The Hawks are poised to secure swingman Tim Coenraad's return in the coming days, which will take the playing list to seven.
Davidson and ex-Sydney Kings centre AJ Ogilvy will become the Hawks' twin towers, with Oscar Forman and Coenraad poised to form a versatile forward combination.
The Hawks have already signed 2012 NBL MVP Kevin Lisch as their first import, joining Rhys Martin and Tyson Demos to share the duties in the back court.
With a development player, likely to be last year's Hawks young talent Kyle Adnam, to be included, Beveridge will turn his focus to finding a second import.
After the club emerged from voluntary administration and changes its name, Davidson said he had unfinished business from last season, where the Hawks won just six games.
"Our win-loss record didn't reflect the capability and effort of the core group," Davidson said.
"We know we are better than that record suggested and now as a group we have the opportunity to prove that. I can't wait for the season to get under way."
The Hawks' defensive general, Davidson forms a major part of Beveridge's blueprint for success after taking over from Gordie McLeod.
"Larry is a very loyal and devoted person to the Illawarra Hawks and we are very pleased that he has re-signed with us," Beveridge said.
"He has a very good basketball IQ and has a very high basketball skill set. His ability to play inside and shoot the three-point shot is going to be an integral part for our team," Beveridge said.
Now 32, Davidson played in the Hawks' grand final loss to Perth, who were coached by Beveridge.
Davidson believes Beveridge can lead the Hawks back to the NBL finals in the 2015-16 season, despite disruptions of the voluntary administration process.
"He'll bring a lot to the basketball program," Davidson said.