The Hawks (1-6) confirmed an achilles tear for their former first round NBA draft pick, who was forced off in the side's 81-76 loss to Perth on Sunday.

"As I expected, I tore my achilles on this play," a despondent Brooks said.

"I've enjoyed my time being a Hawk ... I've enjoyed all the years I've put towards this game... I gave it my all and that's all I could ever ask for."

Brooks, now 34, had been the side's most consistent presence, averaging 19.7 points per game this season, with the club now forced to seek an immediate replacement.

His injury followed the pre-game scratching of fellow import Josh Boone (nose), with rookie coach Matt Flinn disputing speculation post-game that the centre may have played his last game for the club.

NBA hopeful LaMelo Ball (16 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists) had arguably his best game since arriving in Australia, with the potential top draft pick set to shoulder an even greater workload in his first season as a professional.

Ball has produced plenty of highlights, while his presence in the NBL has helped the league break viewership records both in the stadium and online.

A step-back three-pointer over renowned Perth defender Damian Martin showed Ball's ability on Sunday, while his stat line of 12.57 points, 5.71 assists and 6.43 rebounds per game has kept NBA scouts interested.

But Ball carried a three-point percentage of 15.2 into that contest.

Flinn insisted there was still plenty of upside following an improved performance against Perth.

"We're one and six; it's not good but we're just going to keep chipping away," he said post-game.

"The charter for our club is to certainly give people opportunity ... at the moment it's hit and miss at times."

Both teams will next face the Bullets, with the Wildcats travelling to Brisbane on Friday before the Hawks face them in Canberra on Sunday.

Australian Associated Press