Travis Trice last played for Galatasaray in Europe. Photo: Supplied

Illawarra has parted ways with Travis Trice over the import guard's refusal to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

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Trice had joined the club as an import in what would've been a return to the NBL for the former Cairns and Brisbane guard.

His time is now over before it began, with his release coming before he's even kitted up in Hawks colours.

Hawks president and co-owner Dorry Kordahi said it was a regrettable turn of events but the 28-year-old's stance left him unable to fulfil his playing obligations.

"I know our members and fans were looking forward to watching Travis compete for our club, but sadly he will not be playing for the Illawarra Hawks this NBL season," Kordahi said.

"We fully respect Travis' views and freedom of choice in regards to the vaccine, but being unvaccinated was going to result in numerous challenges, especially as we are still firmly in the midst of the pandemic.

"We wish Travis all the best but have immediately turned our attention to a replacement. We are currently exploring a number of viable options and we hope to have some good news in the coming weeks for our members and fans."

Trice described the decision as being in the best interests of himself and the club.

"Sadly I won't be suiting up in a Hawks uniform this season," Trice said.

"The decision was made in the best interests of both parties and I wish the Hawks all the best for the upcoming season."

Trice becomes the second star player to be released by their NBL club in as many days after the Breakers parted ways with Tai Webster on Monday over his refusal to be vaccinated.

NBL commissioner Jeremy Loeliger has said the league will not implement a mandatory vaccination policy, but warned government policies could prevent unvaccinated players traveling freely through different states.

"We will continue to educate our people and will strongly recommend [vaccination]," Loeliger said in a statement earlier this month.

"It may be that those who don't get vaccinated won't be able to travel between states and countries, or even enter certain venues, and therefore won't be able to participate in some games when the season begins.

"Individuals that decide not to get vaccinated could be subjected to different rules depending on various government protocols and restrictions."

The NBL season is scheduled to begin on November 18, though it remains highly likely a further postponement will occur as NSW and Victoria look to navigate the latest delta outbreak that's seen full-scale lockdowns in both states.

Both governments have indicated that freedoms, in the immediate future, will only be granted to those who are fully vaccinated.

The West Australian and Queensland governments have taken hard-line stances on border closures, with the NBL the only national sporting league facing the challenge of playing across all Australian states.

Earlier this month the Sydney Kings shutdown training and sent players and staff into isolation after a player returned a positive COVID test.

Reigning champions Melbourne United dealt with its own outbreak among players and staff prior to last season, ultimately going on to claim the title.

The Kings and Hawks began last season on the road when they were relocated to Albury on Christmas Eve amid the Sydney Northern Beaches outbreak.

Both subsequently shifted to North Queensland and, with the Melbourne NBL Cup added to the schedule, the Hawks played 16 of their first 17 games on the road, not returning to Wollongong full-time until April.

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