Adris Deleon.
NBL
One win doesn't make a season but the Wollongong Hawks are set to be a hot ticket in town this summer.
Less than a week after the football grand finals, the Hawks drew one of their biggest opening-night crowds in years on Friday at WIN Entertainment Centre.
A bumper crowd of 4323 turned up to watch Wollongong beat long-time rivals Sydney 79-76 in an entertaining clash that went down to the wire.
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New imports Adris Deleon and Lance Hurdle were impressive on debut, while 19-year veteran Glen Saville turned back the clock with a 21-point performance.
The Hawks are on the road against the Cairns Taipans on Friday night and officials are hoping for another 4000-plus turnout for Wollongong's round three clash with Townsville at the WEC on October 21.
Suiting up for the Crocodiles will be former Hawks star and 2011 NBL MVP Gary Ervin.
"There was a fantastic buzz around the arena in the build-up to tip-off on Friday. We're absolutely thrilled with the community coming out and continuing to support the team with such great pride and passion," Hawks general manager Mili Simic said.
"That was our biggest season-opener in well over five years and one of our biggest regular season crowds since we've been a community-owned club from 2009.
"Basketball is a great night out for everyone in Wollongong and it showed on Friday. The vibe and atmosphere only gets better with daylight saving and summer is just around the corner.
"We've already had fantastic feedback on how great the night was and how enjoyable it is coming and watching live Hawks basketball.
"Our next game is two weeks away and we'd love to see those fans continue to come back and bring some friends with them."
Tickets are available through Ticketek and start at $15 for children, $20 for adults and $55 for a family of four.
"We urge fans to get their tickets early. Pre-booking tickets is a great option or get to the stadium well before the advertised tip-off time to get your tickets," Simic said.
"The doors open early, so to ensure you don't miss out on any action, get your tickets early. The queue for tickets was huge for the opener, but you can easily jump the queue and get in your seats early by pre-booking your tickets."