1987

• Post-Season:

  • Won elimination final (North Melbourne) 105–97 

  • Lost semifinals (Brisbane) 1-2 

• Coach: Dave Lindstrom 

• Captain: Gordie McLeod 

• Team MVP: Not awarded 

• Support staff: 

  • ​Commissioner: Syd Webb

The 1987 season was a turning point for the Illawarra Hawks as they solidified their position as one of the league's top teams. Finishing third with a remarkable 20-6 record, the Hawks were led by the strategic brilliance of Coach Dave Lindstrom and the on-court leadership of Captain Gordie McLeod.  

Their season was highlighted by a thrilling victory over North Melbourne in the elimination final, but they fell short in the semifinals against a strong Brisbane squad. McLeod’s miraculous buzzer-beater against Brisbane in game two of the semifinals, a moment that has since become legendary in Hawks folklore. 

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NBL Award Winners:

• NBL Coach of the Year: Dave Lindstrom 

• NBL Rookie of the Year: Greg Hubbard 

Playing Roster