Al-Saadi to lead Illawarra men in NBL1 East

The Illawarra Hawks have announced that experienced international coach Nashat Al-Saadi has accepted the role of head coach for the upcoming 2022 NBL1 East competition.

Al-Saadi has been heavily involved with the Hawks' local and representative programs over the past three years, initially coming in as an assistant coach with the Basketball NSW Waratah Youth League Men’s Division 1 team before becoming head coach of the Hawks U18 boys Junior Premier League team.

Al-Saadi has extensive basketball experience across the world, including Iraq, Syria and the UAE that he will be able to invest in the NBL1 East competition.

"I’m extremely proud and grateful for the opportunity," Al-Saadi said.

"I have had the opportunity to work closely with a lot of talented Hawks players over the past three seasons, and I’m looking forward to being able to recruit more talent to the Hawks as part of our NBL1 East journey.

"The work that I’ve seen put in from all parties since being a part of the association makes me want to be on board for the future."

Hawks co-owner and President Dorry Kordahi said: "The Illawarra Hawks, as big supporters of the Illawarra Basketball Association, are excited to see Nashat Al-Saadi appointed as their inaugural NBL1 men’s head coach.

"This competition provides a legit pathway for the next generation of Hawks stars to ply their trades.

"We will continue to build our connection with the IBA and focus on building a pathway for our region.

"I wish them the best of luck in 2022."

President of the Illawarra Hawks, Sam Ackroyd, has welcomed the announcement of Nash as the head coach of the Hawks' NBL1 men’s team.

"To be able to get someone with Nash’s international experience and reputation is a huge win for our club," Ackroyd said.

"Nash works really hard with our talented juniors and seniors in our representative program; but more importantly he also gives his time for our local competitions in coaching junior teams.

"This gives our members that clear vision that they can play and stay in the Illawarra while also pursuing their basketball dreams.

"We are excited by the level of players that Nash is looking to bring to the Club as well, and we are hoping for some exciting player announcements very soon!"

View the 2022 NBL1 roster tracker here.