Happy Days: 'I'd sign a seven-year deal now'

The last time Darius Days was in the Hungry Jack's NBL, he helped the Illawarra Hawks win the 2024-25 championship.

Now, after a stints with San-en NeoPhoenix (Japan) and TNT Tropang 5G (the Philippines), the 26-year-old forward is returning for a second season with the Hawks.

During the Hawks' NBL27 pre-season, the import has made one thing clear - he's not planning on leaving Wollongong again.

"I always wanted to come back to Illawarra. We reached out and also Illawarra reached out. I feel like this was the best option for me at the moment. I don't ever want to leave, honestly. Like I would sign a seven-year [contract] right now," Days told Fox Sports News.

"I love Illawarra. I want to be here for the rest of my career. That's just how I feel in my heart, because I already know what I'm getting myself into with JT (Justin Tatum) and the coaching staff. They are very hard workers. Everybody is like a big family here, and without family, you really don't have anything."

The American, who averaged 10.2 points and 6.1 rebounds during the club's run to a second title, and his Hawks will open its 2026-27 campaign on Sunday, September 20 against the New Zealand Breakers at Spark Arena.

Read the full story here >> ‘I would sign a seven-year deal right now’: Darius Days opens up on Hawks return after injury setbacks and year away