Kenny said others are still in consideration and the team will be prepared pre-season by assistant coach Kaine Hokianga, in close contact with Gruggen, as the club builds a team in the hope of just a second NBL title.
Gruggen has also been assistant coach with the Sydney Kings, head coach of high performance with Basketball New South Wales and Southern Development Officer at Basketball Tasmania.
“I’m extremely excited to join Hawke’s Bay Hawks and I’d like to thank Jarrod Kenny and the board for putting their trust in me,” he said. “Their vision of player development (both in Hawke’s Bay and around New Zealand) along with their commitment to building a successful and hard-working roster aligns perfectly with my coaching philosophy.”
He said the Hawks have been “working diligently putting together a roster that has a great mix of young and talented players with experienced veterans”.
“I’m excited to get over to Hawke’s Bay and be a part of this supportive and passionate community,” Gruggen said.
Kenny said: “We are thrilled to have Sam lead our team next season.
“His drive for excellence in every facet of the game is impressive. “We are confident that this characteristic will inspire and elevate our entire team and staff, helping them reach their full potential. "
Kenny confirmed the Hawks will have a pre-season match against new NBL side Whai, from Tauranga, and that it will be played in Wairoa on March 9.
They will then meet again in their first NBL match of the season in Tauranga on March 28.