Illawarra Hawks coach Justin Tatum has spoken out against inconsistent officiating, in particular the less-than-ideal treatment of his star centre — with the league’s MVP also in his crosshairs.
It was a much more positive outing for the Hawks following their 42-point loss to the New Zealand Breakers, but they ultimately fell two points short of the Adelaide 36ers in a game that went right down to the wire.
One of the biggest talking points from the 90-88 loss was the free-throw disparity, with Adelaide winning the count 29-17.
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Tatum addressed the issue post-game, saying: “It’s very tough to get a consistent whistle. I’m guessing the referees are doing the best they can.”
Tatum continued, expressing frustration over the treatment of veteran centre JaVale McGee.
“At the end of the day, we just have to play through it. JaVale’s freedom of movement is not available out there. Guys are face-guarding him, keeping hands on him, not even paying attention to the game.
“It’s difficult to understand from a coach’s perspective, but we know where we are.”
However, it was his final comment that is sure to spark debate during the week ahead.
“We know how the league protects Bryce, which is understandable because he’s talented.”
McGee, who only attempted one free throw in the contest, has struggled to draw whistles this season despite his physical style of play. Tatum added, “It’s hard to imagine a seven-foot guy being guarded by someone three to five inches shorter and not getting fouled more often.”
Tatum claimed Bryce Cotton is protected by the league: Picture: Michael KleinSource: News Corp Australia
The Hawks coach said the club will once again raise the issue with the league. “We bring this to the league’s attention with clips, hoping they understand what we’re talking about in live action. Until then, we just have to tell JaVale and the other guys to figure it out.”
He finished by clarifying that his comments weren’t complaints, but observations on how the game is being officiated.
“It’s unfortunate because players can’t have freedom of movement and people aren’t playing actual defence. But it’s not complaining; we have to get better as a group and find a way to win.”
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A major positive for Illawarra was the performance of Will Hickey, who in just his second game back from a nasty eye injury produced 20 points, nine rebounds, eight assists and four blocks.
Tatum praised his effort, saying, “He leaves it all out on the court just like everybody else. He played an exceptional game. I know he’ll be on himself a little bit about the last two free throws, but it should never have come to that.”
When asked if Hickey’s form had surprised him, Tatum replied, “Not really surprised. He’s been working himself back into shape. He’s a competitor. He’s been looking like that the last week in training – especially in recovery defensively and trying to get the guys to have a competitive edge. I was really happy with what he did.”
After Friday night’s heavy defeat, the Hawks’ response showed resilience and heart – a point not lost on their coach.
“I tip my hat off to my team for coming back and having so much resilience and fight in them today. They gave a great effort on both ends of the floor – just a little bit unlucky,” he said.
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Tatum also welcomed the quick turnarounds between games, saying: “It’s a short turnaround but I like having games every couple of days. If you win, you want to keep winning; if you lose, you want to find a way to win.”
The Hawks may have another injury concern, with forward Jonah Bolden leaving the game early.
“What I heard briefly was maybe a strain around the groin area. We’ll get him scanned this week and hopefully he recovers soon and gets back in the lineup,” Tatum said.
The Hawks now sit 2-6 on the season and face a challenging week ahead with clashes against Melbourne United and the Cairns Taipans.
These matchups will provide a clearer picture of where they truly stand in the NBL. With new additions still integrating, returning players finding rhythm and potential injury concerns, Illawarra will be eager to get back on the winners list and deliver a strong response in front of their home fans.
