WHEN it rains it pours. That appears to be the case for Illawarra who have been strongly linked to NBA G League power forward Billy Preston.
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The 6 ft 10 power forward and Oak Hill Academy alum was most recently contracted to the Texas Legends - the Dallas Mavericks G League affiliate.
The Hawks are reportedly considering the 22-year-old as a replacement for Hawks rookie Sam Froling who appears likely to be placed on a long-term injury list.
It comes hot on the heels of the signing of swingman Darington Hobson who was this week acquired by the Hawks as a replacement for the injured Aaron Brooks.
Preston committed to the University of Kansas in 2017 but departed without playing a game amid a dispute with the NCAA to take up a professional opportunity with Bosnian club KK Igokea before entering the 2018 NBA Draft.
He went un-drafted before signing with Cleveland Cavaliers' Summer League team and signing a two-way deal with the Cavs G League affiliate Canton Charge.
After being waived by the Cavs, Preston was traded to (Atlanta Hawks' affiliate) Erie BayHawks before linking with Texas for the 2019 season.
Froling hasn't played for more than a month as he nurses an ankle injury, while the Hawks will also be without boom rookie LaMelo Ball for Saturday's clash with Brisbane.
The potential No. 1 Draft pick is nursing foot soreness on the back of consecutive triple-double performances in the Hawks past two outings.
Mitch Jennings
Sports writer. Sport is my passion, rugby league my first love.
Sports writer. Sport is my passion, rugby league my first love.
