Ball Back Home: One of the Bay’s Brightest Returns

The Big Barrel Hawks have landed one of their biggest signings for 2026, bringing back Jackson Ball, widely regarded as one of the most exciting young guards in New Zealand and on the global stage, as they push towards a championship.

A Napier Boys’ High School product, Ball’s rise over the past 12 months has been rapid and decisive. During the 2025 Sal’s NBL season, he was recognised as the league’s Youth Player of the Year, while also earning Most Improved Player honours. A reflection of both his talent and his ability to translate development into performance.

His emergence has also been recognised on the international stage. Ball earned selection to the Tall Blacks, making his debut at senior level, and was further exposed to the global game through involvement in elite development opportunities aligned with NBA All-Star Weekend, competing alongside some of the top young talent from around the world at the Basketball Without Borders where he was named in the all star 5.

Ball said returning to the Hawks was an easy decision. “It means a lot to be back home and to represent Hawke’s Bay again. This is where I’m from, and I’m proud to be part of what we’re building. I’m excited for what this group can achieve.”

Known for his ability to control the tempo of the game, make high-level reads and organise a team, Ball has quickly developed into a true floor general. His growth as a scorer and leader across the 2025 season saw him transition from a developing prospect into a player capable of winning games.

Big Barrel Hawks General Manager Jarrod Kenny said Ball’s signing reflects both his development and the direction of the roster. “It’s been really cool to be a part of Jackson’s journey over the last 18 months. To see him come through our system and develop into the league’s top youth player, earn his Tall Blacks debut and gain exposure on the global stage speaks to the level he’s now operating at. He’s a great young man who puts in the time and effort every day, and he deserves all the success he’s having.”

Head Coach Will Lopez said Ball’s ability to think the game sets him apart. “Jackson has a real presence on the floor. He’s able to lead the group and dominate the game both on and off the ball through his communication. He understands what’s needed in the moment and is not afraid of it, he organises the team and brings real direction to what we’re doing. What’s exciting is that he’s still improving, which only adds to his overall impact.”

With Ball heading to Wisconsin at the end of the season, this year may be the last time we get to see him in action for quite some time. With a big future ahead of him the likelihood he’ll be back in the NBL anytime soon is slim. Make sure you secure your tickets now and don’t miss your chance to see Jackson Ball and the rest of the Big Barrel Hawks in action this season.

Ball now joins Alonzo Burton, Kobe Kara, Isaac Allan, Keanu Rasmussen, Clifton Bush III, Balin Casson, Dan Grida, Tommy Fergusson, Jacob Murphy, Ezrah Eagle and Chase Jeter as other rostered players signed to date for the 2026 season.

Caption: Jackson Ball of the Hawks during the NBL – Wellington Saints v Hawkes Bay Hawks at TSB Arena, Wellington, New Zealand on Sunday 27 April 2025.
Photo by Masanori Udagawa. www.photowellington.photoshelter.com

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