"40 minutes of hell"

Justin Tatum is ready to put down last week’s Seeding Qualifier loss to Tasmania as a learning experience for his Illawarra Hawks, and he’s told the Breakers to expect “40 minutes of hell” in Monday night's clash at the WIN Entertainment Centre.

The winner of tonight’s Play-In Game will progress to a Playoff Series against Melbourne, while the loser will have their season brought to a halt.

The Hawks’ loss in the Seeding Qualifier robbed them of a locked in series against the Perth Wildcats, however their ladder position has seen them earn a second chance against the Breakers.

“It was a learning process, I think it was great for us to be in a situation like that. The outcome would have been better if we had won but I think that experience for the two hours in that game was great for us. We had some film to show where we need to adjust as a group and how we need to be just as physical as other teams are with us,” Tatum said.

“Tassie punched first and we talked about that. It was something where they set the tone where they really needed to, because if they didn’t they know how we can get rolling.

“I think we were a little lethargic coming out and I partially blame myself for not getting the team ready or mentally prepared for the game, but as a group they’re professionals and they understand they need to play with heart too. It was a learning process for everybody.

“[We’re going to play] physical, Playoff, tough, grimey, get it done basketball.

“They should expect 40 minutes of hell.”

A crucial contention being made in the lead-up to the game is how the Hawks will go about stopping Parker Jackson-Cartwright on the offensive end.

Hawks legend Damon Lowery said on NBL Now transition defence will be the key to slowing the diminutive guard down, and Tatum offered an insight into his side’s defensive plans.

“Multiple bodies, long defenders and extra effort,” he said.

“We’ll try to be physical with him so we can control and wear him down. He’s their main ball-handler so we just want to show him different bodies and make him play defence on the back end.”

Tonight’s Play-In Qualifier between Illawarra and New Zealand will tip off at 7:30pm AEDT, live on ESPN via Kayo, and Sky Sport in NZ. Coverage will start from 7pm.