GE to electrify Hawks again
TweetRHYS Martin’s decision to pursue opportunities to play in Europe has opened the door for Wollongong’s 2011 MVP Gary Ervin to return to the club for the 2014-15 NBL season.
Had Martin decided to stay with the Hawks, coach Gordie McLeod most likely would have gambled on a new face in that import spot.
But with the safety net Martin would have provided for an incoming import gone as he utilises his Irish heritage to find a gig in Europe, Ervin’s return appears imminent.
A player already well aware of the NBL and successful in it, is Wollongong’s preferred option.
Ervin, who left the Hawks for Europe himself after winning the league MVP honors, was back in 2012-13 with Townsville where he won the club’s MVP award.
Last season the brash New York playmaker was the only significant player difference in an Adelaide 36ers team which leapt from the bomb shelter to the Grand Final.
I believe Ervin was high on the Hawks' "wish list" when Martin's plans became more evident. He is and was a popular figure in Wollongong.
Last season Ervin averaged 15.9ppg and 4.8 assists with the 36ers.
Over his 72-game NBL career, he has delivered 17.8ppg and 4.6 assists and he is sure to win back the Wollongong faithful in a rejuvenated club aiming for the summit in 2014-15.
The Hawks already have Oscar Forman, Tim Coenraad, Larry Davidson and Dave Gruber back (can Tyson Demos be far behind?), with Brad Hill (Kings) and Adam Ballinger (Tigers) signed.
Ballinger, like Ervin, will be returning to his former stomping ground.