The Illawarra Hawks are preparing to part ways with import Darius Days, sources told ESPN.
The American forward played less than seven minutes in the Hawks' 2026-27 season opener against the New Zealand Breakers -- a 95-81 loss, where he posted zero points, three rebounds, and four fouls -- with the team ultimately making the decision to move on from him.
Days was a member of the Hawks' 2025 NBL Championship-winning team, and the team was hopeful he would provide an impact playing both frontcourt positions coming off the bench for this season's group. There was an assessment that the Hawks, who have just one true centre on their roster in Sam Froling, required more size from that position, leading to the parting of ways with Days.
Days was informed of the decision on Tuesday. The expectation is the Hawks will put strong consideration into signing an import centre, sources said.
The development isn't completely surprising, given the Hawks had re-engaged with the import market during the NBL Blitz in early September, sources said. Days' management has been shopping him around in recent days, sources said.
The Hawks' next game of the regular season is on Friday against the Bullets at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre.