Report: LaMelo's purchase of NBL's Hawks 'imminent'
The saga between LaMelo Ball and the National Basketball League's Illawarra Hawks appears to be reaching its conclusion.
Ball's purchase of the Australian-based club is reportedly "imminent," according to Tim Barrow of the Illawarra Mercury.
In April, Ball's manager and ex-NBAer Jermaine Jackson claimed that he and his client had bought the Hawks. The NBL released a statement shortly after to deny Jackson's assertion that the purchase was "a done deal," but acknowledged that they were in talks with Ball's camp.
The Hawks' long-term future has been a bit murky as the club incurred a $2.4-million debt following the 2019-20 campaign, yet the NBL remains dedicated to keeping the franchise operating.
"The NBL is committed to the Hawks remaining in the league," the NBL told ESPN's Jake Michaels. "We are continuing (to) talk to a number of interested parties to find the next owners of the club."
Ball, a potential No. 1 pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, opted to play professionally this past year in Australia. He averaged 17 points, 7.6 rebounds, 6.8 assists, and 1.6 steals before a foot injury prematurely shut him down for the remainder of the season.
Despite appearing in just 12 contests, Ball was named NBL Rookie of the Year.