It wasn't the performance Illawarra Hawks fans had been holding out for when the Sydney Kings came to Wollongong on Sunday night.

In fact, it was the second worst in history.

The silver lining? Thousands still packed the stands, and were gifted with a half time presented by KidsWish.

KidsWish spokesperson Emily Wright said the partnership highlighted the power of community coming together through sport.

"We're so grateful to the Illawarra Hawks for choosing KidsWish as their charity activation partner," she said.

"The Hawks are such a big part of our local identity, and this partnership is about celebrating inclusion, teamwork, and the joy that comes from giving back to the community we all love."

The first instalment of the NBL26 freeway rivalry just received a boost, with the Illa

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