Big Barrel Hawks Friday Night Hoops

The Hawke’s Bay Hawks are back at home at the Nest this Friday, 17 April, taking on the Manawatū Jets in what shapes as a fast, physical early-season test.

After a sharp pre-season hit out where we got up by 10 points, the Jets will be looking to counter. Despite a close losses to the Whai and Airs the Hawks group is building nicely and Jackson Ball back in the Nest for his first game of the Sals NBL season. Combinations are clicking, the new faces are settling, and our locals are stepping up with confidence. 

Now it counts.

The Jets will bring energy and pace, so expect a high-tempo contest from tip-off. For us, it is about setting the tone at home, backing our systems, and bringing the Nest to life.

Be there. Bring the noise. Back your Hawks as we kick things up a gear.

Two Games. One Ticket. Rapid League Returns

Rapid League is back, adding new energy and edge to every Sal’s NBL game day, and for the Hawke’s Bay Hawks, it is already proving to be a game changer.

Played immediately before the main fixture, Rapid League is a shortened, high-tempo format that delivers intensity from the opening tip. But it is more than just a curtain-raiser. The result counts. Points earned in Rapid League are added directly to the overall competition ladder, creating real stakes and strategic importance for every club.

For supporters, the value is obvious. When you walk through the doors at the Nest, you are getting two meaningful contests for the price of one. It is more basketball, more energy, and more opportunity to connect with the team.

For the Hawks, the impact runs deeper. Rapid League is a genuine development platform, giving local and emerging players the chance to step into a competitive environment and earn their stripes. It bridges the gap between community basketball and the professional stage, strengthening the pathway right here in Hawke’s Bay.

You will see the future of the Hawks before the main roster even hits the floor.

Fast, fearless and full of opportunity, Rapid League is not just an addition to game day. It is an investment in what comes next.

OG Willie B: More Than the Game

OG Willie B, Willie Burton, sits down on Above the Nest to share a story that goes well beyond the game.

Raised in Detroit, Willie’s basketball journey took him to the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers before a long professional career in the NBA, including time with the Miami Heat and Philadelphia 76ers.

Across the episode, he reflects on what the game gave him early on, structure, opportunity and direction, while also acknowledging the pressure that comes with performing at the highest level.

What stands out is the perspective he brings now. A focus on growth, connection and the people around you who help shape the journey.

That path has since led Willie to Hawke’s Bay, where he remains a valued part of the Hawks whānau. His influence continues to be felt across the club and community, helping guide the next generation both on and off the court.

This is a kōrero grounded in experience, shaped by reflection and driven by purpose.

Watch or listen to the full episode here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WI4NXmD4HnI

Powering the Future: TotalEnergies x Rapid League

The Hawks are proud to continue our long-standing partnership with TotalEnergies, who return as the naming rights sponsor of our Rapid League team for the season ahead.

This is more than a sponsorship. It is a relationship built over time, grounded in shared values of performance, innovation and community connection. Through their New Zealand network, TotalEnergies has established a strong presence in Hawke’s Bay, supporting local initiatives and backing organisations that bring people together.

Their investment in the Rapid League is a clear example of that commitment. The competition plays a vital role in developing emerging players, giving them meaningful minutes and exposure in a fast-paced format that is exciting for fans and valuable for growth. With TotalEnergies alongside us, that pathway continues to strengthen.

Off the court, their impact is just as visible. The TotalEnergies player card sets have become a standout feature of the season. For younger supporters, they are more than a giveaway. They are a connection point. A way to engage with the team, learn the names, and build that early sense of belonging to the Hawks.

It is partnerships like this that help shape who we are as a club. Local, connected and forward-looking.

We are proud to have TotalEnergies as part of the Hawks whānau and excited for what we will build together this season.

Your Table. Your Game. Your Night.

Experience the Big Barrel Hawks hospitality at its best, with a one off table.

We’re opening up a limited number of corporate tables for individual home games at Rodney Green Arenas. This is the perfect way to bring your team, reward your clients, or host a business event with a difference.

What’s included:

• Reserved courtside table for your group
• Premium game day atmosphere with Hawke’s Bay’s professional basketball team
• Flexible — book just the game that works for you

Whether it’s a client night out or an end-of-quarter reward for your staff, a Hawks game delivers the kind of shared experience that sticks.

Spaces are limited and fill fast, especially on weekends.

Book your table now → gm@hawks.org.nz

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