Road Test Awaits Hawks Against Swarm

The West Yorkshire Hawks tip off 2025 this Saturday with momentum on their side, traveling to face Manchester Swarm at the National Basketball Performance Centre. The Hawks enter the matchup riding an impressive four-game winning streak, most recently securing a 19-point win over the Sheffield Sharks. This impressive run has propelled the team to 3rd in the league standings with a 6-1 record.

Meanwhile, Manchester Swarm have struggled to find their footing this season. Sitting 7th in the league with a single win from seven games, the Swarm are aiming to rebound after an 18-point loss to the Tameside Vikings in their last outing. Despite their record, the Hawks are taking nothing for granted against a team hungry to make a statement.

The two teams last squared off earlier this season, where West Yorkshire secured a convincing 25-point victory at the Hawks Nest. Chris Jackman paced the Hawks’ balanced scoring effort with 23 points in that contest, as the team’s depth and defensive intensity proved critical.

For the Hawks, maintaining their defensive discipline and capitalising on transition opportunities will be crucial. Head coach Danny Byrne highlighted the need to quickly shake off any post-holiday rust, acknowledging the Swarm’s potential to surprise:
“It will be great to get back on court and straight into the action on Saturday. Swarm’s position and winning record aren’t a true reflection of them as a team. They are well-organised and can play great basketball. We will need to shake off the Christmas rust early and be fully focused on this one.”

The Hawks have been firing on all cylinders during their recent streak. The Swarm’s challenge lies in slowing down this offense and addressing the defensive lapses that led to their season-high margin of defeat in their previous meeting.

Tip-off is set for 5:00pm at the National Basketball Performance Centre, where the Hawks will look to start the year with a road win.