ILLAWARRA / WOLLONGONG
1986–1992: Building a Contender
The Dave Lindstrom era
The period from 1986 to 1992 marked a transformative era for the Illawarra Hawks under the leadership of American coach Dave Lindstrom. As the first paid head coach in Hawks history, Lindstrom’s arrival signalled a new level of commitment and ambition for the club. This shift was made possible by the unwavering support of Ron Cross, owner of Cross Country Motors.
Cross had become a driving force behind the Hawks, making it clear in 1986 that he was either with the team “all the way” or “not at all”—and he only wanted to be associated with winners.
This bold stance led to the formation of Illawarra Cross Country Hawks Pty Ltd, a new company that formalised the partnership and provided the financial backing to bring Lindstrom on board.
To save costs during his early days with the team, Lindstrom lived with the family of John Trivellion Scott, the former coach-manager-commissioner-commentator who had named the team the “Hawks” over a decade earlier. This arrangement not only underscored the tight-knit nature of the Illawarra basketball community but also the sacrifices and dedication that were foundational to the Hawks’ rise.
Under Lindstrom’s leadership, the Hawks shifted from being a developing side to a genuine NBL playoff contender. Lindstrom instilled a tougher, more competitive identity that laid the groundwork for sustained success.
The Hawks’ resurgence began immediately in 1986. Lindstrom’s coaching acumen led the team to a 15-11 record and their second-ever playoff appearance. The roster featured Gordie McLeod’s expert playmaking and the addition of Jim Bateman, who strengthened the frontcourt. The team’s semifinal run set the tone for future seasons and signalled a new era of ambition.
A defining moment of the 1986 season was the dramatic and controversial rematch against the West Sydney Westars. Earlier in the season, Illawarra had won by a single point, but the Westars protested, claiming a scoring error. The NBL’s rare decision to replay the game led to a rematch on September 17 at the Snakepit.
After trailing 26-14 at the end of the first quarter, the Hawks showcased their resilience, clawing back to claim another one-point victory.
September 17, 1986 | Illawarra Hawks vs West Sydney Westars "The Replay game"
The tension reached a climax when the Hawks faced the Westars again in the elimination final, winning convincingly and silencing any lingering doubts. This period epitomised the team’s fighting spirit, which would become synonymous with Lindstrom’s Hawks.
Travelling Hawks fans celebrate the 1986 Playoffs win against West Sydney Westars.
In 1987, the Hawks had their best regular season to date, finishing with a 20-6 record and securing third place in the standings. This year also saw the debut of the formidable “Killer Bs”—Jim Bateman, Ray Borner, and Don Bickett—who anchored one of the league’s most feared frontlines.
The Hawks advanced to the semifinals, defeating North Melbourne in a dramatic elimination final. Although they fell to Brisbane in a fiercely contested series, McLeod’s buzzer-beater in Game 2 became legendary, illustrating the never-give-up attitude of the team.
The partnership with Cross Country Motors would come to an end.
Illawarra Hawks vs Brisbane Bullets - 1987 Playoffs - Gordie McLeod 3pt buzzer beater
1988 Season Preview with Warrick Giddey
The Hawks’ form wavered in the late '80s.
By 1988, Big Rooster had stepped in as the Hawks’ new sponsor, but the season opened in turmoil as Illawarra scrambled to finalise their roster. Alphonse Hammond returned with hopes of providing some continuity but lasted just four games before parting ways with the club. In need of more size and muscle up front, the Hawks turned to a trusted figure, bringing Don Bickett back to stabilise the frontline.
Despite their efforts, the Hawks couldn’t quite recapture the magic of the previous year, finishing with an 11-13 record and missing the playoffs. Still, the contributions of players like Chuck Harmison and young guard Greg Hubbard — who had captured NBL Rookie of the Year honours in 1987 — helped keep the team competitive. Injuries and roster changes presented ongoing challenges, but under Dave Lindstrom’s leadership, the Hawks remained poised for a rebound.
But, the 1989 season was another tough one for the Hawks, who battled injuries and inconsistency on their way to an 11th-place finish with a 7–17 record.
Finding rhythm proved difficult, but there were still bright spots. Norman “Stormin’ Norman” Taylor quickly established himself as a dominant force, earning team MVP honours, while rising star Justin Withers claimed the NBL Rookie of the Year award.
Last quarter highlights of Illawarra Hawks vs North Melbourne Giants in 1989 at the Snakepit.
The early 1990s brought both promise and setbacks. Norman "Stormin' Norman" Taylor emerged as a dominant force in the paint, earning team MVP honours with his unstoppable inside play.
However, the 1991 season saw the Hawks battle injuries and inconsistency, culminating in a 6-20 record. Lindstrom's steady leadership helped navigate these challenges, setting the stage for a resurgence.
The 1992 season marked a turning point as the Hawks returned to playoff contention.
With an invigorated roster featuring future NBA player Doug Overton and standout Melvin Thomas, they secured a playoff berth. Although their postseason ended in the quarterfinals at the hands of North Melbourne, this achievement reinforced Lindstrom’s impact on the club and the enduring competitiveness he fostered.
Lindstrom's era was defined by strategic growth, It featured the rise of key players, the introduction of iconic figures like the Killer Bs, Chuck Harmison, and Doug Overton, and a deepening of the Hawks' identity as one of the NBL's most resilient teams. Lindstrom's tenure would leave a lasting mark on the franchise, setting the foundation for future success.
Stormin Norman Taylor interview from 2010.
Photo gallery - scroll through or click image to full size.
