The Illawarra Hawks are a professional basketball team based in Wollongong, Australia. They compete in the National Basketball League (NBL), which is the top-tier basketball league in the country. The team was established in 1979 and has a rich history, including multiple playoff appearances and a championship win in 2001. The Hawks play their home games at the Wollongong Entertainment Centre, which has a seating capacity of around 5,000. The team's colors are red, white, and black, and they are known for their passionate fan base. Over the years, the Hawks have developed rivalries with other NBL teams, enhancing the competitive spirit of the league.