Big Barrel Hawks Round 3 Action!

This ANZAC week, we’re proud to stand together as a community as the Big Barrel Hawks host the Canterbury Rams at Rodney Green Arenas.

We’ve long recognised ANZAC Day through moments that matter. Acknowledging service, creating space for reflection, and bringing people together through the game we love. Thursday night continues that tradition.

And here’s the call to action. The first 300 tickets are half price. Get in early, secure your spot, and be part of something bigger.

Thursday 23 April
6:00pm Rapid League / 7:00pm Tip-off

This isn’t just another night of New Zealand National Basketball League. It’s atmosphere, connection, and pride in where we’re from.

Fill the Nest. Back the boys. Honour the moment.

Built for the Grind: McLaughlin Touches Down

The Big Barrel Hawks have added size, strength and international experience to their roster with the signing of American forward Jeremy McLaughlin.

Standing at 6’7” (203cm), McLaughlin slots straight into the four spot, bringing a physical presence and versatility that will strengthen the Big Barrel Hawks frontcourt. Known for his work rate and ability to influence the game in multiple ways, he adds rebounding, interior scoring and defensive toughness to the group.

McLaughlin has built an impressive professional résumé since graduating from Catawba College in 2019, taking his game across a wide range of international leagues. His career has included stops throughout Europe, South America and Australia, giving him exposure to different styles of play and high-level competition. 

That experience shows in his consistency and composure. Whether it’s finishing around the rim, competing on the glass or defending multiple positions, McLaughlin plays with a strong motor and team-first mindset. Performances like his standout 35-point, 12-rebound outing overseas highlight the impact he can have when he gets rolling.

For the Big Barrel Hawks, his arrival adds another layer to a developing roster. He brings balance to the frontcourt rotation and gives the side a reliable inside presence to complement the team’s pace and perimeter threats.

Big Barrel Hawks fans can expect a player who competes hard, plays physical and embraces the grind.

Make sure you’re in the building to see Jeremy McLaughlin in action as the Big Barrel Hawks continue to take shape this season.

Worn With Pride. Built for Te Matau-a-Māui.

More Than Merch. This Is Where We’re From.

The new 2026 Big Barrel Hawks range has landed and it’s unmistakably Te Matau-a-Māui.

From sharp black-and-orange game-day kits to everyday hoodies and tees, every piece carries the strength of where we’re from. The 2025 brand refresh leads the charge — a bold, modern Hawks mark that’s dynamic, unmistakable, and built to stand out across the league.

This isn’t just merch. It’s identity.

It’s wearing Hawke’s Bay on your chest. It’s backing your team, your whānau, your place.

All eyes on the Bay. Always.

Proudly from Te Matau-a-Māui.

Available now at Stirling Sports Napier and at all Big Barrel Hawks home games.

50 Years of Flight

Fifty years of Hawks basketball. It’s a milestone worth celebrating.

Since taking flight in 1976, the Hawks have been a constant in the New Zealand basketball landscape, building a legacy grounded in Hawke’s Bay pride. From packed nights at Rodney Green Arenas to a championship run in 2006, this club has always been about more than results. It’s about community, identity and the generations of players who have worn the singlet.

In 2026, we celebrate 50 years of the Hawks. As part of it, Above the Nest will bring the stories to life, with past and present players sharing the moments, memories and milestones that have shaped the club.

Make sure you’re following Above the Nest and watching each episode on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@HawkesBayHawks

Be part of it as we honour the past and build what comes next.

Big Barrel Hawks Game Days

Before tip-off, head straight to the foyer. Grab your Big Barrel Hawks player cards, collect the full squad across the season, get them signed and build out your collection game by game. Kids go nuts for them, and they’re free with entry.

While you’re there, jump into the Jump Challenge. Test your vertical against your mates (and the players, if you’re game). Prizes up for grabs, bragging rights guaranteed.

Drive it further with Coasteez

We’re proud to have Coasteez on board as the sponsor of our Long Drive Leaderboard on Above the Nest.

Built for the coast and made to perform, Coasteez delivers premium gear that goes the distance, whether you’re on the range or out on the course.

Backing big hits and even bigger moments, they’re a perfect fit for the Hawks whānau.

Check them out and gear up: https://coasteez.co.nz/

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