Force Multipliers: McGee and Hickey Hurt United
JaVale McGee’s dominant 37-point, 14-rebound performance led the Illawarra Hawks to a commanding 107–93 victory over Melbourne United in Round 8 of NBL26 at the WIN Entertainment Centre in Wollongong on November 5, 2025.
McGee’s Impact and Team Balance
The Illawarra Hawks secured a wire-to-wire win, showcasing renewed balance and intensity. The defending champions appear rejuvenated with key roster moves, including signing an aggressive backcourt guard. William "Davo" Hickey shifted the game’s dynamic, while new import QJ Peterson allowed All-NBL First Team star Tyler Harvey more freedom to create plays.
Within 31 minutes, 37-year-old McGee delivered a career-high with 37 points, 14 rebounds, two steals, a block, and an assist. His presence inside 10 feet was nearly unstoppable.
"I was just trying to be aggressive," McGee said. "That’s one thing I struggle with sometimes – staying consistent on the aggressive end. I get a little too unselfish, where I’m by the rim and try to pass it. But my teammates were really pushing the pace today. I think that’s what really helped. I was down the floor, they were throwing it ahead – it was a big team effort tonight."
Recent Team Challenges
Just under a week earlier, teammate Tatum had apologized for the team’s heavy 42-point loss to the New Zealand Breakers, highlighting the Hawks’ strong turnaround in form against Melbourne United.
Photo Credit
Photo: Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images
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