Sun Aug 03 10:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Hawks Soar Higher with NBA Champ JaVale McGee

**Illawarra, Australia** – The Illawarra Hawks have significantly strengthened their bid for back-to-back championships in NBL26 by signing three-time NBA champion JaVale McGee. The 37-year-old veteran, fresh off a strong performance in Puerto Rico, is set to fill the void left by injured big man Sam Froling, who is still recovering from an Achilles injury.

Analysts Pete Hooley and Olgun Uluc believe McGee is a perfect fit for the NBL. Hooley stated on “The Marketplace,” that with a key point guard import still to be finalized the signing gives the hawks a “legitimate shot at winning it all again.”

Uluc of ESPN highlighted McGee’s ability to address the team’s need for frontcourt depth. “He brings a two-way threat to a team that needed that depth in the front court,” he said, likening the McGee signing to other successful NBA veterans who have transitioned to the NBL, such as Montrezl Harrell, Andrew Bogut, and Matthew Dellavedova.

McGee’s arrival could also indicate a more cautious approach to Froling’s return. Uluc suggests the Hawks may ease Froling back into the lineup, allowing him to gradually regain his form. This approach could provide the Hawks with an even stronger roster as the season progresses, with Froling potentially making a significant impact off the bench.

The signing of JaVale McGee signals a serious statement of intent from the Illawarra Hawks as they look to defend their NBL title.

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