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New Hawks coach Brian Goorjian has filled his import slots for the upcoming season, signing Californian defensive standout Justin Simon.

New Hawks coach Brian Goorjian has all-but completed his roster rebuild at the rebranded club, signing defensive specialist Justin Simon on a one-year deal.

The Californian 24-year-old was defensive player of the year in the 2019 Big East college conference and will join sharp-shooting compatriot Tyler Harvey in Wollongong, with Goorjian still hopeful of adding a Next Star to the mix.

Brisbane NBA talent Cameron Bairstow has already committed to the Hawks, as has New Zealand talent Max Darling for the season due to commence in December.

Goorjian is arguably the newly-purchased club's biggest addition though, the master coach returning to the Australian league from China with six NBL titles already under his belt.

Simon described himself as a "blue collar guy who would bring it every night".

"The NBL is full of world-class scorers and to be successful you need someone who is committed on the defensive end and can stop those scorers," Goorjian said.

"Justin will play that role for us and we are excited about the defensive mindset he will bring to the court."

Meanwhile Cairns added Kiwi forward Jordan Ngatai, the two-year deal his first in Australia after six seasons with the Breakers.

He will join compatriot Jarrod Kenny, veteran big Nate Jawai and Australian Next Stars acquisition Mojave King, with the club yet to confirm the return of point guard Scott Machado.