Illawarra Hawks coach Justin Tatum maintained a positive outlook despite his team’s heavy 122-112 defeat to the Tasmania JackJumpers at the WIN Entertainment Centre on Friday night. The match marked Tatum’s 100th game as head coach of the Hawks, but the milestone was overshadowed by Tasmania’s dominant performance.

The JackJumpers set a new franchise record for total points in a single game, surpassing their previous best of 114 points scored against the Brisbane Bullets earlier this season. Tasmania’s victory improved their record to 4-1, securing second place on the league ladder behind the unbeaten Sydney Kings, who hold a 3-0 record.

Illawarra, struggling with a 1-5 record, appeared lackluster and unable to contain the JackJumpers’ sharp shooting. The loss represented Illawarra’s fourth defeat by double digits this season, following losses to South East Melbourne, Sydney, and New Zealand.

“It was just a tough day in the office for us,” Tatum said after the game. “Yeah, we had 112 but the other team had 122, so not too proud of that, but as I said, just a tough day in the office. I’m just proud of how they just kept playing.”

Despite the setback, Tatum refrained from public criticism of his players, emphasizing their continued effort throughout the game. The Hawks will be looking to bounce back as they seek to find consistency in a challenging start to their National Basketball League campaign.