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Gordon Herbert and Sam Mennenga press conference vs Illawarra Hawks, Round 1, NBL27

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NBL27 Round 1 Press Conference (Herbert & Mennenga)

Gordon Herbert and Sam Mennenga spoke at their NBL27 Round 1 press conference after opening the season against the Illawarra Hawks. (Game specifics such as the final score and exact key-play timings were not provided in the subtitles.)

Season Opening / Team Performance

  • Herbert thanked the home crowd for the energy and said that if the team plays with high enthusiasm, it can build a “six-man mentality.”
  • He praised the players’ effort, competitiveness, and strong individual performances within a team mindset, while acknowledging there were still areas to improve.

Turnovers / Ball Security

  • Mennenga emphasized that the team had zero first-half turnovers.
  • He added that the team finished with five turnovers for the game.
  • He called taking care of the basketball one of the most important aspects of their offense.

DJ’s Impact (Shooting, Spacing, Basketball IQ)

  • Herbert described DJ as an “X-factor.”
  • Even when DJ isn’t shooting, he creates spacing by forcing opponents to guard him.
  • Herbert also highlighted DJ’s basketball IQ as standing out (more than raw shooting).

Sam’s Early-Game Approach

  • Sam said the plan was to “throw the first punch” and be aggressive early.
  • He noted that his early shots helped him find rhythm.
  • He said the team played together well and maintained that momentum.

Game Management / Schedule

  • Herbert said the team would focus on:
    • Reviewing film
    • Using contrast learning from video rather than extensive practice
    • Recovery, especially with key players logging heavy minutes

Rotation Decision: Isaiah Starting

  • Herbert explained that Isaiah started to get rhythm because Preston was out.
  • He noted Isaiah needed minutes so he wouldn’t play “cold.”
  • The plan was to play Isaiah about four minutes, then bring him back later.

New Player Integration: Mojave

  • Herbert said Mojave has adjusted “extremely well” with the group despite having little time in Australia.
  • He emphasized that Mojave will continue improving as he becomes more comfortable.

Continuity and Fit: Sam & Parker

  • Sam said sharing the court with Parker feels natural due to Parker’s competitiveness and fast-paced style, which helps create opportunities.
  • They also discussed improved spacing and how having more three-point threats affects the offense.

Motivation / Expectations

  • Sam said he doesn’t focus on outside opinions about whether the team is seen as a contender.
  • Instead, he emphasized internal standards, particularly what they do in practice.

Injury Updates: Noah & Preston

  • Herbert said Noah’s minutes were limited due to knee issues, and his role will be determined by practice and competition.
  • For Preston:
    • His status is day-to-day after a sprained ankle
    • He will travel with the team
    • A decision is expected likely on Tuesday

League Impressions

  • Herbert and Sam commented on the NBL’s:
    • Quality
    • Parity
    • Professional infrastructure
  • They also noted that on any given night, any team can beat any other.

Press Conference Wrap: Home Crowd & Upcoming Game

  • Sam praised the atmosphere of the home crowd and referenced the Warriors game earlier that day as well.
  • He and Herbert encouraged fans to attend upcoming games, mentioning a next Wednesday night match.

Presenters / Named Speakers (from Subtitles)

  • Gordon Herbert
  • Sam Mennenga
  • JT
  • Troy (speaker/host reference; referenced lines like “Hey coach…”, “Is that…”, “Get used to it”)
  • Chris P.
  • Max
  • Isaiah
  • DJ
  • Parker
  • Sam (same speaker as Sam Mennenga)
  • Mojave
  • Preston
  • Noah
  • Joia James
  • Charles
  • Chris P. / “Chris” (press attendee)
  • Troy (press attendee/host reference)

Original video