Built in the Bay, Ready for 2026
The Hawke’s Bay Hawks head into the 2026 Sal’s NBL season with a squad that reflects both growth and intent.
At the heart of the group is a core of local players who have developed strongly over the past two seasons, players who understand the environment, the expectations, and what it means to represent the Bay. Around them sits a layer of experienced, mature signings from outside the region, adding composure, leadership, and proven ability.
The result is a team that blends familiarity with firepower.
Control of the game starts in the hands of the Hawks’ guards, with the ability to dictate tempo and create scoring opportunities. That’s supported by size, physicality, and effort through the middle, giving the team balance across the floor.
Across the league, styles vary. The Wellington Saints rely on structure and execution, while the Canterbury Rams bring a physical inside presence. The Hawks sit in a space where they can adapt — stretching teams with pace and skill, while still matching the physical contests.
2026 Roster Breakdown
Issac Allan
A steady organiser who sets the tone. His growth over recent seasons shows in his control and decision-making.
Alonzo Burton
A proven scoring threat. Brings experience, athleticism, and the ability to create offence when it matters.
Clifton Bush III
Physical and reliable on the wing. Adds defensive strength and rebounding presence.
Balin Casson
Developing local talent with versatility. A player continuing to grow into his role.
Tommy Fergusson
Smart, composed guard play. Provides stability and spacing.
Ezrah Eagle
Athletic and disruptive. Impacts the game with energy and defensive pressure.
Dan Grida
Experienced interior presence. Tough, consistent, and anchors the physical side of the game.
Kobe Kara
High-energy contributor. Brings pace and lifts intensity.
Jacob Murphy
Versatile across positions. Offers flexibility on both ends.
Keanu Rasmussen
Young and improving. Adds depth and long-term upside.
Chase Jeter
Experienced big that dominates the paint.
What This Group Brings
- Locally developed core with strong continuity
- Experienced signings adding composure and leadership
- Game control through the backcourt
- Balance between perimeter skill and interior toughness
Opening Home Game
Rodney Green Arenas – The Nest
April 11 | 3:00PM
Whai
A team built here. A season that starts now.
Get behind it. Lock in your seats.
Above the Nest — Inside the Hawks, past, present and what’s next
The Hawks are bringing the conversation closer to the fans with Above the Nest — a brand-new podcast hosted by board members Justin Leydesdorf and Clifton Bush Jr.
Quick, insightful and never short on personality, the show blends sharp analysis with plenty of humour. It’s a space where the stories behind the jersey come to life — from the club’s early days to the modern era, and everything building into this milestone 50th anniversary season.
Two episodes deep, there’s lots to reflect on and plenty of chat as J and Cliffy explore the forecast for the coming season and what that means for the current group, and offering early insights into the 2026 campaign. Expect regular appearances from players, coaches and key figures around the league as the season unfolds.
Produced by Hawks player Kobe Kara and supported by Streetwise Coffee, TotalEnergies, Kings Union Barber, Coasties Golf Range and other valued partners, Above the Nest is a project that’s been a long time coming and lands at exactly the right moment.
Watch the latest episode now on YouTube, follow our social channels, and make sure you don’t miss a moment. This season, get closer than ever — Above the Nest.
Worn With Pride. Built for Te Matau-a-Māui.
More Than Merch. This Is Where We’re From.
The 2026 Hawke’s Bay Hawks range is here — and it’s more than a collection. It’s a statement of who we are and where we’re from.
Built for the court, the streets, and the whānau, this year’s range leans fully into the 2025 brand refresh. The Hawks identity is sharper, stronger, and impossible to ignore — a logo that feels alive, watching, representing, standing apart from anything else in the league.
Across the range, you’ll see it brought to life:
- Classic black kits with bold orange detailing that hit hard and clean
- Statement tees and training pieces built for everyday wear
- Junior Hawks gear that carries the next generation forward
- A heritage-inspired strip that nods to culture, pattern, and place
Every piece ties back to Te Matau-a-Māui — grounded in who we are, and proud of it.
This isn’t about wearing a team.
It’s about wearing where you’re from.
All eyes on the Bay. Always.
Proudly from Te Matau-a-Māui.
Available now at Stirling Sports Napier and at all home games.
From the Bay, For the Bay: Big Barrel Back with the Hawks
The Big Barrel naming rights partnership with the Hawke’s Bay Hawks continues for a second season. The relationship brokered by local media company and Hawks sponsor FizzyPop is grounded in shared roots and a genuine connection to the region.
Big Barrel began in 2003 with a single store in Marewa, Napier. Founded by brothers Palwinder Singh and Avtar Singh, the business has grown into one of New Zealand’s leading independent liquor retailers, with more than 40 stores nationwide. It remains 100 percent family-owned.
Hawke’s Bay is where it started and where it still gives back.
That connection sits at the heart of their partnership with the Hawks. The Sal’s NBL and Sky Sport coverage provide a national stage, giving Big Barrel visibility across Aotearoa and connecting them with customers right around the country.
That reach drives impact at home.
Big Barrel continues to support grassroots sport, local initiatives, and community programmes across Hawke’s Bay. Their backing of the Hawks reflects a wider commitment to investing in people, pathways, and the future of the region.
It is a full circle story. Built in the Bay, grown across the country, and reinvested back into the Bay.
For the Hawks, it means a naming rights partner who is part of the whānau. For Hawke’s Bay, it is local success that continues to give back.
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