Hawks big man relishing clash of the Titans

Last season’s sixth man of the year Cam Tragardh remains in doubt for what would be his 300th NBL game, but veteran big-man Matt Burston and new recruit Mark Worthington promise to provide a stern first-up test for Ogilvy.

It will be the first of many absorbing clashes between the league’s behemoths with the likes of former NBA centres Nathan Jawai and Hakim Warrick joining a league stacked with quality big-men.

Ogilvy has the potential to be top of that class after proving one of the most dominant big men to ever play in the NBL when he turned out for the Kings in 2013-14.

The preseason showed a continuation of that form with the 27-year-old producing four double-doubles including 19 points and 13 rebounds against Adelaide and 17 points and 10 rebounds against Townsville in his past two hit-outs. 

The season-opener against last season’s grand finalists provides perfect opportunity for Ogilvy to make a statement on his NBL return.

‘‘I think everyone comes into the season with a point to prove and everyone’s got a bit of a chip on their shoulder,’’ Ogilvy said.

‘‘There’s a lot of good big guys back in the league this year and I think it’s the strongest the league has been for a number of years.

‘‘I’m definitely excited to be back this year and it’s going to be a great year of basketball.

‘‘[Cairns] have got a really deep squad of big guys there. They’re very talented and mobile and I think we’re in for a battle against them.

‘‘We had a bit of a run against them in the preseason and we went pretty well so I think we’ll give them a good run.’’

The recruitment of Ogilvy has forced veteran centre Larry Davidson - a starter for the past eight seasons - to the bench.

Davidson has gone on record saying his new teammate is the best centre he’s ever guarded in his 286-game career and Ogilvy said the chance to push each other in scrimmages is bringing out the best in both of them.

‘‘Going up against him day-in day-out is definitely  making me work harder,’’ Ogilvy said.

‘‘It’s certainly getting me ready for the games coming up and I’m sure it’s doing the same thing for him. Larry’s spreads the floor a bit better than I do, he can shoot the the three well while I’m pretty solid on the inside so I think that brings a good variety to our offence.

‘‘He’s used to playing in a starting position so going against him every day is making me better for sure.”