It may be early, but the initial signs indicate the LaMelo Ball experience will be a positive one for the Illawarra Hawks.
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Ball was among a number of standouts for the Hawks at the NBL Blitz in Tasmania, with Illawarra splitting their two matches across the weekend.
Despite being forced to miss Sunday's 110-91 loss to Melbourne with a back injury, Ball received rave reviews for his performance on Friday night.
The teenager produced 19 points, 13 rebounds and 7 assists in the overtime victory over the Perth Wildcats, with Ball showing he could make a significant impact for the Hawks this season.
Ball made a crucial three-pointer with 90 seconds remaining in Friday's win, while Tim Coenraad levelled the scores with a deep ball of his own to force overtime.
The Hawks then held their nerve in overtime, with A.J. Ogilvy and Todd Blanchfield landing crucial free throws to secure the 122-119 win.
Ball's fellow American Aaron Brooks was also impressive across the two games, the former NBA veteran producing 20 points on Friday night before backing it up with a further 15 on Sunday.
Sunday's match saw the Hawks trail from the onset, with Melbourne United winning every quarter to claim a comfortable victory.
Illawarra were under-strength for the match, with Blanchfield and Josh Boone also sitting out the affair.
The overall Blitz title was claimed by Brisbane, the Bullets securing wins over the NBL1 All-Stars and Adelaide.
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Cameron Mee
Sports reporter at the Canberra Times
Sports reporter at the Canberra Times
