Illawarra Hawks’ CJ Maran Selected to Represent Syria at FIBA Asia Cup

Illawarra Basketball Association is proud to announce that Christian “CJ” Maran has been selected to represent the Syrian National Team at the upcoming FIBA Asia Cup.

CJ will depart this week to join the national team ahead of the tournament later this month. While the club and team will miss his presence both on and off the court, we’re thrilled to see CJ take the next step in his career and represent his heritage on the international stage. We remain hopeful he will return in time to contribute to the back end of the NBL1 East finals campaign.

“It's a huge honour to represent Syria at the FIBA Asia Cup,” said CJ Maran. “Where my dad’s from and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity. I was fortunate to play in the qualifiers, but competing on this bigger stage is something really special.

While it’s bittersweet to be stepping away from the Hawks during the NBL1 season, I’m proud to represent the Illawarra community on the international stage. I want to thank my family for their constant love and support, and to the Illawarra fans, staff, and wider community, thank you for making me feel so welcome. From the courts to the little things behind the scenes, your support has meant everything.

To my teammates, you’re more than just teammates, you’re brothers. I’ve formed lifelong connections, and I’ll miss you all. To Flinny, Dino, Pete, Eric, and Cranney, thank you for helping me grow as a player and person. I’ve loved being part of the Hawks, and I truly hope to return and finish what we started.”

Illawarra Hawks NBL1 Men’s Head Coach, Matt Flinn, shared:

“CJ thoroughly deserves this opportunity and as a group we are so proud of him and the way he has transformed his game with us this season. No question it will leave an irreplaceable hole on the roster but it has always been my philosophy to recruit and develop players who have aspirations and ambition to play at the highest level they can. Unfortunately for us the timing isn’t great but personally, I am super pumped for him to get to the Asia Cup, represent his culture and continue to gain the exposure he needs to keep getting better on his basketball journey. Hopefully we can make the GF and get him back for the final. We wish nothing but the best of success for him.”

IBA Head of Basketball Ben Bagoly added:

“We couldn’t be prouder of CJ. He’s been outstanding on the floor, reliable, competitive, and team-first, but what’s been just as valuable is the role he’s played off it. Whether it’s mentoring Youth League players, helping guide our young NBL1 players, or being a fan favourite at school clinics, CJ has embraced Illawarra. We’ll be cheering him on every step of the way.”

The entire Illawarra Hawks family wishes CJ all the best as he embarks on this exciting new chapter, and we can’t wait to welcome him back soon.

Catch the Hawks in action this Saturday night at The Snakepit as they continue their push for finals don’t miss it!