Matthew Dellavedova's Class Act: Will Hickey’s Moment of Glory in NBL Finals
What a night it was for the Illawarra Hawks and their star guard, Will Hickey. The NBL Finals came to a dramatic conclusion with the Hawks clinching their first championship in 24 years, defeating Melbourne United 114-104 in a decisive Game 5. But what happened after the game might just be the most talked-about moment of the season.
Despite Melbourne United's loss, the Finals MVP was awarded to Matthew Dellavedova. The announcement was met with mixed reactions, with jeers ringing out from the WIN Entertainment Centre crowd. Many felt that the real hero of the series was Will Hickey, whose incredible energy and performance turned the tide in the final two games, securing the title for Illawarra.
Hickey had an outstanding Game 5, posting 21 points, 10 rebounds, and 8 assists. From the opening moments, he played with an intensity that helped erase Melbourne's early 10-point lead. By the end of the night, he had been a major force in delivering Illawarra’s long-awaited championship.
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And then came the moment of pure sportsmanship. As Dellavedova took the stage to accept the Finals MVP trophy, he did something that stunned everyone—he handed the trophy over to Hickey. With the simple words, “Davo, this belongs to you,” he recognized the efforts of his rival and gave him the moment he truly deserved.
Dellavedova, an NBA champion and seasoned professional, had been United’s most consistent player throughout the series, but he understood that Hickey was the driving force behind Illawarra’s historic victory. Overwhelmed yet honored, Hickey accepted the trophy, though he remained humble about the gesture.
This moment encapsulated everything great about sports—competition, respect, and honor. Dellavedova’s selfless act was praised by basketball fans and legends alike, including former NBA star Andrew Bogut, who called him a “class act.”
For Illawarra, this victory marked only the second championship in the franchise’s 47-year history, the first since 2001. After years of struggle, they finally had their redemption, led by an inspired group of players who refused to back down.
As the final buzzer sounded and the celebrations began, one thing was clear—this wasn’t just a win for the Hawks, but a defining moment for Will Hickey. A player who stepped up when his team needed him most, earning the admiration of teammates, opponents, and fans alike. And thanks to Matthew Dellavedova’s generosity, his efforts will never be forgotten.
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