The Australian basketball league has agreed to reinstate the name of foundation club, the Illawarra Hawks

Disappointed by the lack of community investment and support, the NBL stripped the Hawks of their "Illawarra" branding as part of the sale to a new ownership consortium last year.

The league's vision was to expand the reach of the Hawks' footprint beyond the Illawarra region.

But the move hit a nerve with the region's fans, who were then challenged to support the club in order for the name to return, which has resulted in reaching their membership target of 4379 this season and increased corporate support from the local community.

BASKETBALL COVERAGE WITH BURGER KING'S NEW SPICY CHICKEN TENDERS...TO SPICE UP YOUR SNACK GAME