Burton Back Where He Belongs

Back in the Nest: Burton Returns

Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand — The Big Barrel Hawks are proud to announce the signing of Alonzo Burton as the club’s first confirmed player for the 2026 Sal’s NBL season.

For Burton, this is more than just another contract — it’s a homecoming.

Raised in Hawke’s Bay and a former student of St John’s College, Alonzo grew up immersed in the region’s basketball community. From junior representative basketball through to his early exposure around the Hawks environment, the foundations of his career were built right here in the Bay.

Now, after forging a strong and consistent NBL career across the country, Burton returns as an experienced professional ready to make an immediate impact.

The 193cm wing brings versatility, leadership and proven perimeter shooting, highlighted by a 42 percent three-point shooting season in 2024, reinforcing his value as a reliable scoring threat at NBL level.

General Manager Jarrod Kenny, who has both played alongside and competed against Burton during his career, said the signing carries genuine meaning for the organisation.

“I’ve had the privilege of sharing the court with Alonzo and competing against him over the years, so I know exactly what he brings,” Kenny said. “He’s tough, he competes, and he can really shoot the basketball. But more than that, he’s a Hawke’s Bay kid who understands what this jersey means. Seeing him grow from a young player here into a proven NBL performer and now bringing him home — that’s something we’re really proud of as a club.”

Head Coach Will Lopez made it clear Burton’s signing is about winning.

“Alonzo helps us win — it’s that simple,” Lopez said. “He’s a proven NBL scorer who can stretch the floor at a high percentage, and that changes how teams defend us. He plays with toughness, understands spacing, and makes smart decisions late in games. When you add a player who can consistently knock down shots at 42 percent from three, that’s a weapon. He gives us experience, composure and shot-making — and those are things winning teams rely on.”

The signing comes as the Hawks prepare to open their 2026 season at home against the Whai on Friday 11 April at Rodney Green Arenas. Opening night promises to be a major occasion as the Hawks launch their campaign in front of their home supporters.

Adding further significance to the announcement, Alonzo’s father, Willie Burton, will also return to the Hawks this season as an assistant coach. One of the most iconic figures in New Zealand basketball history, Willie’s legacy with the club spans decades and includes championship success and a jersey retirement in recognition of his immense contribution to the organisation and the wider Hawke’s Bay basketball community.

“To have Willie back involved and Alonzo returning home at the same time is incredibly special,” Kenny added. “The Burton name means a lot in Hawke’s Bay basketball circles, and we’re excited about what that story looks like in 2026.”

For Burton, the opportunity to wear the Hawks jersey again carries added meaning.

“Coming back to Hawke’s Bay means everything,” Burton said. “This is where I grew up, where I went to school, and where I first fell in love with the game. To be able to represent this region again is something I’m really proud of.”

The Big Barrel Hawks will announce further signings in the lead-up to the 2026 Sal’s NBL season.

Caption: Suzan, Willie and Alonzo during Willies Jersey Retirement during the 2025 SalsNBL

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