The Illawarra Hawks are within touching distance of completing a remarkable 12-month NBL transformation after Thursday night's 87-69 humbling of the New Zealand Breakers at WIN Entertainment Centre.
Wooden spooners last season for the just the second time in the club's 37-year existence, the Hawks' victory over the Breakers was their 13th of the season - more than double last year's meagre six wins.
Illawarra sharpshooter Kirk Penney was typically brilliant, tormenting his former side with a game-high 28 points (5/10 three-pointers).
American guard Kevin Lisch (16 points, eight rebounds, four steals) left his imprint on the round-15 clash, while Rhys Martin (13 points) was instrumental off the bench.
The Breakers made just 36 per cent of their shot attempts and were belted 46-36 under the boards.
Corey Webster led New Zealand with 23 points, but most of those came when the contest was well and truly decided.
Known primarily for their offensive proficiency, the Hawks - decked out in blue and gold playing strips like they wore in the NBL's inaugural season in 1979 - built their victory on defence and a strong rebounding effort.
Illawarra led by one at quarter-time and grabbed the game by the throat by outscoring the visitors 26-9 in the second period.
It was all over bar the shouting when a Penney three-pointer blew the margin out to 29 with 5:35 remaining in the third period.
The Hawks have had the reigning champions' measure in three meetings this season and will like their chances of completing a 4-0 sweep when they square off for the final time on Sunday in Auckland.
Seemingly assured of a top-four finish approaching the Christmas period, New Zealand have shown signs of vulnerability over the past month, losing four of five games.
Third-placed Illawarra's win was their ninth in 11 games and boosted their record to 13-8.
The Breakers (11-9) have their noses in front of Adelaide (10-9) in the battle for fourth spot.
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