Home > Mark Bradley > Archives > 2008 > May > 03 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USHawks stand on cusp of history
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Are you believing this?
You and I mightn’t be. The snooty Celtics surely aren’t. But the Hawks, for reasons unknown and unknowable, act as if they aren’t one bit surprised.
They’re not surprised at having felled the NBA’s best team three times in seven days. They’re not stunned that this psycho series is headed for a Game 7 on Sunday. They’re shocking the world, but they’re not shocked.
“We aren’t the ones who doubted,” Mike Bibby said. “You guys [the media] doubted.”
“Every single person in this locker room,” Josh Childress said, “knew how good we are.”
It was midway through the third quarter of Friday’s Game 6 when the realization began to take hold: The Hawks haven’t just caught a bolt of lightning — they’ve become lightning itself. How else to describe the dizzying sensation of seeing the playoff qualifier with the worst record stare into the face of the league’s stoutest defensive club and score on …
Are you believing this?
Seventeen consecutive possessions.
Seventeen possessions over eight astonishing minutes that saw the Hawks pull from eight points down to two ahead. Boston couldn’t stop them. If they missed a shot, they seized the rebound and scored on a follow. The regal C’s, possessor of a basketball tradition like no other, couldn’t do one single thing to blunt an opponent it was supposed to sweep.
What we’ve seen this last week is a team that has wandered long in the desert find itself at sudden last. What we saw Friday night in a frothing Philips Arena was the No. 8 seed look into the widening eyes of the overwhelming favorite and see weakness and fear.
Like the posse in pursuit of Butch and Sundance — or, if you’re of a more literary bent, Inspector Javert on the heels of Jean Valjean — the newly indomitable Hawks keep coming. And the wear is clearly showing on the older Celtics, who were, after all, supposed to have won this thing in a canter.
They nursed a lead for three quarters in Game 6, but in the end they came unstuck again. Paul Pierce, their captain and leading scorer, fouled out with 4:44 left and got a technical to boot. Even when Boston had a chance to tie inside the final seven seconds, Rajon Rondo seemed not to know how to count. He dribbled forever and finally took a shot that had less chance than Cliff Levingston’s running lefty hook had for the Hawks in that Game 6 against the Celtics 20 years ago.
That Game 6, and the subsequent epic Game 7 loss, marked the crest of the high-bounding Hawks of Dominique and Doc and Spud, the team that could get so far and no further. These new Hawks seem not to recognize any limitations. They say they’ve known all along how good they were, but how could they have known?
“We work hard like everybody else,” Childress said, “and now preparation is meeting opportunity. We’ve got confidence, and with a young team confidence can be a blessing and a curse. Once we get to thinking we can do anything, we do do anything.”
In one careening week a feckless franchise has erased a decade of failure. People who wouldn’t be caught dead at a Hawks game are now packing the arena and wearing white “Shock The World” T-shirts and screaming so loud as to unnerve a visitor that figured it had seen and heard everything.
“It’s definitely a dream,” Josh Smith said. “I was watching ESPN today and people were saying we were going to get knocked out today. We like to keep proving people wrong.”
They’ll get another chance Sunday in Boston. Having already rocked the basketball realm, they stand now on the cusp of history. This was supposed to be the biggest mismatch of the postseason, but these amazing Hawks stand one game from making it the biggest NBA upset ever.
We mightn’t be believing this, but they are. They absolutely are.
Permalink | Comments (111) | Post your comment | Categories: Hawks/NBA
Comments
By Freshmaker
May 3, 2008 12:35 AM | Link to this
What an amazing game. The Hawks just will not fold. I can’t tell you how many times I thought it was over when the Celtics would get up by 8 or 10. The Hawks just kept coming back and then blew them out of the water in the 4th quarter. Big props too to Marvin Williams. He’s been knocked a lot around here (and deservedly so for the most part), but he came up big tonight. Fought Pierce to a draw for 3 quarters. We might make a player out of him yet! Go Hawks!! Shock the world on Sunday baby!
By Partha
May 3, 2008 12:37 AM | Link to this
GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!
2007-2008 NBA CHAMPIONS!!!!!!!!!
By Partha
May 3, 2008 12:38 AM | Link to this
GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!
2007-2008 NBA CHAMPIONS!!!!!!!!!
By Sri
May 3, 2008 12:39 AM | Link to this
MB,
Kudos to you for supporting this team unlike that bearded **d, Jeff Schultz (?), who showed himself to be a hater at the beginning of this series. I am praying for these guys man. To see those “rowdy” fans (thanks Kevin Garnett for telling us that) going crazy was a treat on the TV set man. I hope they are not satisfied with only a Game 7 loss. We need these boys to win Game 7. That’s what we want. Best wished to Coach Woody and all the players. By the way, all you guys out there who’re gonna be visiting your respective places of worship this weekend — plz say a prayer or two for this team. They have brought a lot of joy to this city and they need all our best wishes.
Where is that coward bearded AJC columnist now? Hiding behind his mama’s skirts, or worse, getting a group hug from all the weeny, liberal editorial team at your paper?
By Derrk
May 3, 2008 12:43 AM | Link to this
The Hawks can win game 7 as long as they play their own style of basketball. Woodson need to let these guys fly in game 7. In 3 games in Boston they thought too much in between possesions because of the pace of the game. Speed it up, jump on them early and often, and last but not least get the crowd out of it. These guys have been better than alot of doubters thought all season. They proved they belonged here. Boston’s too old and hopefully they realize that in Game 7. Go Hawks!!!!!!
By JRough
May 3, 2008 12:48 AM | Link to this
Maybe you haters will show Marvin som love now! Without his 18 points we loose this one. WAY TO GO MARVIN!!
By R. Stroz
May 3, 2008 12:58 AM | Link to this
Did anyone else think the game was fixed based on the ref’s calls in the first half?
Props to the Hawks for hanging around, not folding, and beating those bunch of flopping, whining Celtics.
By Anthony
May 3, 2008 1:01 AM | Link to this
No matter what, I’m proud of my team. After all these years of frustration it sure is nice. Kinda reminds me of the braves worst to first year. Of course it’s going to be hard to win Sunday but #1 we’ve got to play defense every time down and play with a sense of urgency. Also, hit the boards on every shot. When I hear Stephen A. Smith bash how bad we are and how it would be a terrible thing for us to even be in a game seven it makes me want to win even more. I think they should play his comments he made right after the game to the players before game seven and let it serve as a little more motivation. I say go up there and let it all go. We’re still playing with house money and are not supposed to be in this situation. What ya think?
By O'brien
May 3, 2008 1:04 AM | Link to this
I am not a big fan of Marvin. Too often during the season, he would score most of his points early in the game, or when the game is out of hand one way or the other, and disappear during crunch time. Plus when his shot was off, he did not provide much of anything else. That being said, I will give credit where credit is due. marvin played really well tonight, and I like the way he rebounded. If we can get that from him every game (and if he improves his range), he would become a great asset to this team.
By Dennis G. Berdanis
May 3, 2008 1:05 AM | Link to this
If Marvin would do what the announcers have been tellng him to, he’d score 25 and have Pierce in all sorts of early found trouble. Instead of always pulling up for the 20 foot jumper, do what he did only one time tonite. When Pierce is running over to guard him, pump fake and drive instead of just pulling up and shooting. Many times he could at least get 4 feet closer to the basket and still take a shot they are playing so far back off of him.
By kburke
May 3, 2008 1:08 AM | Link to this
Somewhere, I know, Mookie is smiling!
By Hawks fan forever
May 3, 2008 1:10 AM | Link to this
The Celtics have a fatal flaw…how do they go to in the crunch? Answer: They dont know, and its killing them in close games. Is it Allen, is it Pierce, is it KG…they can’t decide.
When the game is on the line for the Hawks, Joe Johnson is the MAN. He makes it happen, its his responsibility, and he relishes the situation.
And yes R.Stroz, everyone can tell see the uneven refereeing.
REASON: NBA stands to lose ALOT of money if the Celtics get bounced from the playoffs in the first round. They are banking on the TV ratings that the Celtics bring for television ads for Disney/TNT.
By LAJ
May 3, 2008 1:12 AM | Link to this
Where is SEKOU SMITH?
By Micron
May 3, 2008 1:16 AM | Link to this
Goooooooooooooooo HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!! I am still pulling for you all the way from the west coast… What an amazing 3 home playoff games. Go on Hawks,Shock the world !!!! Whatever happen on Sunday, you all have nothing to be ashamed of in this serie.
By Boo Hoo
May 3, 2008 1:25 AM | Link to this
Well, I never…! Those mean referees are being totally outrageous. They certainly have their nerve, I mean the insolence and inconceivable gall they displayed in game 6 by calling fouls against our fair and noble Celtics allowing those unsavory peasants, the Atlanta Hawks, to have the chance to win that game. I hope that our commissioner David Stern gives them the serious talking-to that they so very richly deserve. Why the very idea…!!! Boo Hoo!
By el el
May 3, 2008 1:26 AM | Link to this
Man, Marvin showed up tonight. When he came back into the game even though he was injured, showed a lot of heart. I just became a Marvin Williams fan tonight.
Also, I’m with Sri on this one. Woody had his boys ready to play tonight. I completely agree with his assessment of that other columnist. All Woody’s done is improve this team (albeit a little slower than we all would like) every year, and now they are one game away from knocking the team everyone has always crowned as the champs.
Win or lose in Game 7 (and I don’t care if anyone thinks I’m crazy, I believe we’ll win), this team, the players and the coach deserve our respect.
By slickb
May 3, 2008 1:34 AM | Link to this
it wasnt nearly as loud tonight at philips arena as it has been the past two home games. i dont know if its bc no one expected the hawks to win tonight, or maybe its bc we were trying to give them a somewhat similar atmosphere to what they will have to deal with in boston. its maddening to think that if this series had begun in ATL, we would win, hands down. on another note, i have had season tickets for 10 years. tonight, after the game ended, i went to the ladies bathroom, club level. there were several women (def not ladies) primping in the bathroom mirror. i asked one to move so i could wash my hands. (not one was using one of the 3 sinks to wash her hands). the lady (?) moved and i proceeded to wash my hands. the woman at the adjacent sink asked why i was so rude to say that. i said i just wanted to wash my hands. so i end up being jumped by 5 so called “ladies”. WTF?!! its unfortunate that now that the hawks are “popular” these type of people are coming to the games. one even admitted that this was her first time going to a hawks game. the games have been great, awesome and the most fun to go to until this. i didnt press charges, but everyone knows me here. i chose to give them a second chance after jumping me by not pressing charges. please, if you dont have manners, respect for other people and are just plain thugs, stay away!!! no one wants you here!!
By slickb
May 3, 2008 1:35 AM | Link to this
it wasnt nearly as loud tonight at philips arena as it has been the past two home games. i dont know if its bc no one expected the hawks to win tonight, or maybe its bc we were trying to give them a somewhat similar atmosphere to what they will have to deal with in boston. its maddening to think that if this series had begun in ATL, we would win, hands down. on another note, i have had season tickets for 10 years. tonight, after the game ended, i went to the ladies bathroom, club level. there were several women (def not ladies) primping in the bathroom mirror. i asked one to move so i could wash my hands. (not one was using one of the 3 sinks to wash her hands). the lady (?) moved and i proceeded to wash my hands. the woman at the adjacent sink asked why i was so rude to say that. i said i just wanted to wash my hands. so i end up being jumped by 5 so called “ladies”. WTF?!! its unfortunate that now that the hawks are “popular” these type of people are coming to the games. one even admitted that this was her first time going to a hawks game. the games have been great, awesome and the most fun to go to until this. i didnt press charges, but everyone knows me here. i chose to give them a second chance after jumping me by not pressing charges. please, if you dont have manners, respect for other people and are just plain thugs, stay away!!! no one wants you here!! hawks fans are respectful and not losers.
By kreedham
May 3, 2008 1:36 AM | Link to this
The Good News is the Hawks could win this thing. The Bad News is if they do Woody is back next year.
By The AntiMe
May 3, 2008 1:38 AM | Link to this
It’s pretty easy to see that ESPN NBA analyst Stephen A. Smith is much more inept at his job than our Atlanta Hawks that he so loves to bash. What an idiot. That dude is the total freaking loser package.
By Tim Dawson
May 3, 2008 1:40 AM | Link to this
Great game! I cant remember being this excited about basketball in Atlanta in a long time, 20 years to be exact. Go Hawks!! Players like Smith and Williams play big in Boston with Johnson and Bibby… sky is the limit!! Gotta Believe!!
By Maxx
May 3, 2008 1:48 AM | Link to this
I am through the roof right now about the Hawks. If we beat the Celtics it will be the biggest upset in the history of basketball.
GO HAWKS!!!!!!
By Tony
May 3, 2008 2:02 AM | Link to this
The Nuggets,Rockets,Suns,Mavs, are all at home and the Hawks are playing on Sunday..Wake me up…..
By Bailer
May 3, 2008 2:09 AM | Link to this
my,my,my, who would have thunk it?
By Bailer
May 3, 2008 2:09 AM | Link to this
my,my,my, who would have thunk it?
By Darrin "The Vent King"
May 3, 2008 2:14 AM | Link to this
I wish I could freeze frame this Hawk’s ATL moment snd put it in a bottle. This has helped heal my Mike Vick scar some, thanks Hawks! Atl Hawk’s fans too, you all were awesome tonight. Now, excuse me, I think I’m going to hide somewhere and cry….simply beautiful.
GO HAWKS!!!
By Florida Gator
May 3, 2008 2:23 AM | Link to this
Al Horford is having one heck of a playoff series as a rookie. He’s a keeper. I’m rooting for the Hawks. If they play like they have at home with that energy and passion they can definitely win game 7. :)
By John
May 3, 2008 2:23 AM | Link to this
Go Hawks!
By Darrin "The Vent King"
May 3, 2008 2:28 AM | Link to this
REMEMBER ‘88 REMEMBER ‘88 REMEMBER ‘88 REMEMBER ‘88 REMEMBER ‘88 REMEMBER ‘88
Don’t miss this chance to be among the great (this time!)
GO HAWKS!!!
By shyboi
May 3, 2008 2:29 AM | Link to this
WOW! WOW! WOW! I love this team! They are fun to watch but can they win in Boston? I think they can if they can shoot high percentage shots, stop Allen & Posey’s 3’s, and get some favorable calls in B-town. The celts are old, out of shape and act like little girls when they don’t get their way. I know I will sleep good tonight knowing that the celts and their fans are crying over their 3rd loss in 4 games. GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Me
May 3, 2008 2:55 AM | Link to this
Great job by the Atlanta Hawks - winning at Home. I love the Hawks; I want them to win this, but they wont.
The Hawks can’t win in Boston this season. And they wont.
Next year the Hawks will win the Division, and it will be a different story.
By Najeh Davenpoop
May 3, 2008 3:09 AM | Link to this
“Maybe you haters will show Marvin som love now! Without his 18 points we loose this one. WAY TO GO MARVIN!!”
This Marvin hater is showing Marvin all the love he deserves today. That dude was ballin’. And you’re right, when Joe was getting doubled and the Hawks needed someone to knock down shots, he was on the money. You can’t really point to one guy as the reason for this win the way you could in Games 3 and 4, but if there was one guy it would be Marvin in my opinion. Not to take away from the great performances by Childress and Horford though.
By nahjay davnpooh
May 3, 2008 3:21 AM | Link to this
najeh, shut the hell up. marvin won’t show up in boston. why don’t you petition a hawks move to jacksonville.
By Nikki
May 3, 2008 4:57 AM | Link to this
Great job, Hawks! The Celtics fans are crying and whining on their MB and asking for coach Rivers’ job. Some have already given it to Avery Johnson. Hmm! Does that sound familiar Hawk fans?
By snuppi
May 3, 2008 5:44 AM | Link to this
Speaking of fair weather fans, there are still tickets available for Game 7 in Boston
We live in strange times!
By warden
May 3, 2008 6:10 AM | Link to this
yo, vent king splurge on some toothpaste for your one good tooth your boy vick. p.s. vote for obama
By vava74
May 3, 2008 6:24 AM | Link to this
We won despite the officiating which was a disgrace:
offensive foul by Garnett: foul by Josh Smith
block by Solomon: goal tending call
offensive foul by Leon Powe: foul by Josh Smith
and the list could go on and on…
Boston’s defense? Double teaming Joe Johnson? 90% of the time, fouls not called!
By Kevin Cowherd
May 3, 2008 7:15 AM | Link to this
I knew it! I picked the Hawks to win it all before the season started! CA CAW!!!
By Scott in Indy
May 3, 2008 7:23 AM | Link to this
As an Indianapolis resident who was, with moderate interest, watching the final week of the season battle between the Pcers and Hawks to see who would be first round fodder for the celts, I am very proud of the Hawks. Indy native Mike Woodson must be cementing his future in the ATL with the team’s performance. Sunday I’ll be watching and I wish the Hawks and their fans much success. There is hardly anything more pleasing in sports than to hear the whining and excuse-making of Boston fans after their team has been dispatched. GO HAWKS!
By bali smith
May 3, 2008 7:37 AM | Link to this
nice article, the hawks really seemed to come together as a team . The bench played great.Everyone can say Marvin played great, which he did, but the man to me was Z. The worst player , I believe you called him, played his heart out, Way to go hawks,
By not even a casual fan
May 3, 2008 7:44 AM | Link to this
I admit I did not watch a full regular season Hawks game this year. Shame on me!
I caught the fourth quarter last night at a local bar. There has not been that much excitement in Atlanta sports since Sid’s slide into home plate in 1991. It was an electric atmosphere in the bar and at the arena. THIS TEAM HAS NO FEAR! GO HAWKS!! FROM A TRUE NEW FAN! Who’s Michael Vick?
By honest_abe
May 3, 2008 7:48 AM | Link to this
scott in indy: are you crazy?
“Indy native Mike Woodson must be cementing his future in the ATL”
most hawks hope not. the hawks are “shocking” the world right now and as a long time hawks fan i’m enjoying the moment. but this latest success just reaffirms my stance that this roster was better than a 37 win team. woodson has proved to be a horrible coach throughout his tenure. also, his latest antics about trying to save his ginormous head when all the focus should be on his team shows he lacks all the attributes needed for a great coach. he’s just plain dumb.
marv stepped up last night. but seriously this is what he should be contributing on a nightly basis. it’s not like the hawks are asking him to go out there and grab double digit rebounds. sure it would be nice if he did, but all the team is asking is hit the open jumper (since he is supposedly the best jump shooter on the team), drive the ball when the d closes in quickly and either get an easy hoop or go to the foul line.
what in the world is wrong with mike bibby’s shot. there’s been something wrong with it since the last two weeks of the regular season. besides the one game aberration in game 4, he has been pretty ineffective. .50 % from the free throw line last night. putrid.
great win, great atmosphere, great time to be a hawks fan. especially for all the band wagoners. WELCOME ABOARD. this team has been here for a while and its been quite satisfying watching these young fellas grow up over the years. go hawks and let “shock the world”!!!
By Old-School
May 3, 2008 8:03 AM | Link to this
They looked good last night. The Hawks continue to develop. They are beginning to look like a solid NBA team. We still need a more ball movement early in the clock and we need to continue to improve our step-to-the-ball defense. BUT MAN, they made their shots down the stretch. I think we can beat Detroit! Bring it on baby.
By maurice
May 3, 2008 8:45 AM | Link to this
Speaking of calls, when Josh Smith drove to the basket and Posey stepped in front of him they called a charge on Smith. Later in the game Pierce was driving to the basket, Smith stepped in front of him, Pierce lowered his shoulder and Smith got the foul. What the foul! Are you kidding me? Really! Go, Hawks! Beat them Beany Babies!
By Hawk A Loogie
May 3, 2008 9:07 AM | Link to this
I couldn’t sleep last night, thoughts of Joe and Marvin and Smoove and J Chills racing through my brain. I’m so proud of these guys.
That being said, something is very, very wrong with Mike Bibby. I think his thumb is affecting his shot. Remember when he got it banged up again, about 10 games before the end of the regular season? I think it’s killing the guy…and Boston will continue to try to exploit it. Another thing: Bibby’s posture is all out of whack…leans to one side constantly. He definitely will need an off-season to rehabilitate.
AFTER THE FINALS, THAT IS!!!!!
GO HAWKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Me
May 3, 2008 9:08 AM | Link to this
Najeh, looks like you’ve got a leech on you. Might be time to change your handle. Yal’ll do know that if the Hawks win game 7 Woodson stays and deservedly so. Give him credit, he is doing a better job. I just wish he would give Salim 5 minutes to swish the net.
By dc tech fan
May 3, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this
Go Hawks and Mario…..we are soooo proud! Kick butt Sunday……..
By nicehooters
May 3, 2008 9:18 AM | Link to this
I’ve watched the Hawks all season and I’ve got one question:
Who is that hot blonde in the black dress sitting at the scorer’s table behind the Celtic’s bench?
Smoking Hot just like the Hawks!
Kick the Celtic’s a$$ in Boston and come back home.
By Steve
May 3, 2008 9:18 AM | Link to this
ATLiens - great to see y’all fired up about the Hawks. Can’t wait to see how the Celtics deal with the pressure back in Boston. If the Hawks stay aggressive on the glass and don’t let Powe and Big Babe make any impact, I think we are going to be taking the second round back to the Dirty.
By LAL fan in ATL
May 3, 2008 9:19 AM | Link to this
I will be the first to admit I doubted these Hawks and am helping myself to humble pie. Great job Hawks.
I have no predictions for Sunday’s game because I’ve been wrong this whole series. So good luck Hawks!
By Joe
May 3, 2008 9:25 AM | Link to this
All the frustration from 88 have been released. What a game! What a crowd! I see season tickets in my future. GO HAWKS!!!!!! Please make Paul P@#$Y Pierce cry one more time
By ATLplayer
May 3, 2008 9:48 AM | Link to this
Great win Hawks! Now Mike Woodson just earned his extension. There is no way management fires him now. I also see this bring ownership back together. Don’t be surprise when the lawsuit is dropped and the spirit gives it another go. Belkin realizes now he was wrong about Joe Johnson. I pray the Hawks can win game 7. It will be extremely difficult. The Celtics are the best at home. They won’t be missing many shots like in Atlanta. Anyway hopefully the Hawks can quiet the crowd and steal game 7. One last thing…if the Hawks win game 7 they have to reach the finals. There is no other team in the east better than the Celtics. We will take it one game at a time.
By Pete
May 3, 2008 9:48 AM | Link to this
It’s all very exciting, but in the end, they go back to Boston and get blown out on Sunday, everybody will have an excuse for why they didn’t do this or didn’t do that………a replay of EVERY “almost” in Atlanta’s sorry sports history. By next weekend, it’s all forgotten. What’s the point of it all ???
By JuliusCesaer
May 3, 2008 9:49 AM | Link to this
I AM HAPPY THAT MY PREDICTION CAME TRUE THAT THE HAWKS WOULD WIN GAME 6. NOW IM BANKING ON MY OTHER PREDICTION THAT THE HAWKS WOULD WIN GAME 7 AND SHOCK THE WORLD! THANK YOU MARVIN FOR FINALLY PLAYING UP TO YOUR POTENTIAL. WE COULDNT HAVE DONE IT WITHOUT YOU. AFTER ALL THOSE YEARS OF FRUSTRATION WE ARE FINALLY ON THE CUSP OF SOMETHING SPECTACULAR. IN FACT MARVIN WILLIAMS LOOKED MORE LIKE MARVIN WEBSTER “THE HUMAN ERASER” AS HE WORKED THE PAINT WITH RECKLESS ABANDON. JOE JOHNSON AND SMOOTH ROCKED THE HOUSE LAST NIGHT WHILE CHILLS GAVE US ALL CHILLS DOWN OUR COLLECTIVE SPINES. THE BIG BAD HAWKS WERE IN TOWN AND THEY HAVE ROCKED THE NBA LIKE NEVER BEFORE. AFTER THE HAWKS DEFEAT THE CELTICS ON SUNDAY ITS ON TO PLAY LABRON JAMES AND THE MIGHTY CAVALIERS. WOW, WHO WOULD HAVE THUNK IT BE I HAVE PREDICTED IT FROM DAY 1. GO HAWKS, CONTINUE TO SHOCK AND ROCK THE WORLD!
By Pete
May 3, 2008 9:49 AM | Link to this
It’s all very exciting, but in the end, they go back to Boston and get blown out on Sunday, everybody will have an excuse for why they didn’t do this or didn’t do that………a replay of EVERY “almost” in Atlanta’s sorry sports history. By next weekend, it’s all forgotten. What’s the point of it all ???
By Knuckle Buster
May 3, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this
I cant beleive that these are the same guys that gave me heartburn all season.. I watched every televised game and I know have season tickets..
HIP HIP HOORAY!!!
By Knuckle Buster
May 3, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this
I cant beleive that these are the same guys that gave me heartburn all season.. I watched every televised game and I now have season tickets..
HIP HIP HOORAY!!!
By Knuckle Buster
May 3, 2008 9:51 AM | Link to this
I cant beleive that these are the same guys that gave me heartburn all season.. I watched every televised game and I now have season tickets..
HIP HIP HOORAY!!!
By Clyde
May 3, 2008 9:51 AM | Link to this
30 plus years for me! We go back yo the games at GA Tech. They use to ring the bell for Walt Bellamy and I could be one of the few people that can say I saw Pistol Pete play in person. This, however, is the best time I have ever had rooting for the Hawks. We have beaten them 3 out of 4. Can you believe it? Anything can happen on Sunday with such a quick turnaround. We will be the focus of the sports world Sunday afternoon.! GO HAWKS!
By Skeptic Tank
May 3, 2008 9:53 AM | Link to this
Just watched ESPN’s recap of last night’s game. Folks, if Steven A. Smith ever steps foot into Atlanta again, he needs to be schooled. That dude is such a Celtic’s homer, it makes you want to puke. Instead of giving the Hawks their props for kicking Boston’s azzes, he tells us that the Celts did this wrong, or that wrong, and need to correct that in order to go forward into the play-offs.
Funny thing is, this is the Underdog Moment that all sports aficionados look for. Why is it that the arrogant northeasterners can’t stomach the thought that they’re getting their BUTTS kicked by the youngest team in the NBA?
By Dennis
May 3, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this
I wonder if Terrance Moore still thinks drafting Al Horford was a mistake. Remember how he ripped the Hawks for not taking Curry from Ohio. Good call TM!!
By Bing4sons
May 3, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this
Wow. An exciting Hawks team! Last night brought back memories of Dominique, Doc, Tree, Kevin Willis, etc. Keep it up Hawks!
By nahjay davnpooh
May 3, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this
skeptic tank,
the celtics are doing something wrong. they’re a 66-win team that swept the hawks in the regular season and have blown the hawks out by 25 points at home in this series.
sure, give the worst team in the playoffs some credit, but it doesn’t take steven a’s expertise (aka the black dick vitale, except less talented and less knowledgeable) to point out that the onus to have closed the series out by now is on the celtics.
By boston b-boy
May 3, 2008 10:13 AM | Link to this
Hawks have played well at home but are a joke away from ATL. They’ll get killed - again - at the Garden. The officiating has been ridiculous too - Paul Pierce never fouls out. That last call was a joke. Kudos to the Hawks but the party ends Sunday.
By eccentric beethoven
May 3, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this
I am a Wizards fan from washington, After the wiz lost to the cavs I was pretty sad…………..but watching the hawks gave me hope for a real series. I know this comment I am about to make is off the topic……………But man Atlanta got some fine women LOL.
By Hawk-Watcher
May 3, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this
Dear Atlanta Spirit Ownership Group,
Given your limited resources (financial and intellectual) I have the following recommendation:
By nahjay davnpooh
May 3, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this
i’m glad hawk-watcher is not in charge. what a retard.
By ajw
May 3, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this
I have to agree that Woodson’s coaching has not been very good all season, but tonight he finally figured out a offensive play to beat the celts defense. JJ having the ball just across midcourt waiting for the double team and dishing to the open man worked beautifully. Gotta make em pay for doubling Joe. I was glad to see them run that play over and over. The Celts defense could never recover after the double. I hate to give Woodson credit, but That was genius!
By ignition
May 3, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this
I’m happy for these YOUNG HAWKS… I’m Gonna GIVE THESE GUYS ALL THEIR DUE…. I ALSO HAVE TO GIVE A Just DUE to BILLY KNIGHT.. This is the TEAM He BUILT… Like it or Love IT…
By Hawk-Watcher
May 3, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this
nahjay davnpooh -
This ownership group will not spend the money to improve GM or Coach position so why disrupt team’s momentum? We sure as hell don’t need to start over again. I will take incremental seasonal improvements over another rebuilding.
By nahjay davnpooh
May 3, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this
hawkwatcher-
just shut up. you’re too stupid to spark a debate.
By Edgar
May 3, 2008 10:47 AM | Link to this
Know what? This is the first time I have paid any attention to the Hawks since the Hubie Brown era of Danny Roundtree, Tree Rollins, John Drew and the players during that space and time. They took the 76ers to game 7 of the eastern conference title game back in the late seventies or early eighties. During the mid and late eighties and early ’90s I didn’t pay that much attention to the Hawks or the NBA. I’m just not an NBA fan anymore. But these guys have got me curious. Could this be the start of a franchise that has for so long been the laughing stock of the league? Let’s see, game 7…. could karma actually happen?
By Clint H
May 3, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this
I am so proud. As a fan who has watched at least 75 games this year, all I can say is I am so proud. I don’t know who saw it, but Algae, D’Hall and many of the current Falcons and also former Hawks like AJ and Terry were in the building last night. These guys were rooting hard for YOUR ATLANTA HAWKS. After this last year we deserve this!!!
By falcon21
May 3, 2008 11:00 AM | Link to this
IF WE ONLY HAD A COACH!!!
By GrammarPolice
May 3, 2008 11:12 AM | Link to this
“Mightn’t” isn’t a word, you redneck.
By yoye
May 3, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this
Unbelievable, great feeling that victory last night at Philips Arena. Hawks came back with focused defense and key offensive rebounds when we most needed it. WE CAN WIN ON SUNDAY!! JUST PLAY AS AT HOME!! HAWKS DO HAVE A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE HISTORY!! BOSTON ARE FULL OF FEAR AND DOUBTS!! GO HAWKS AND FINISH THEM
By phantom
May 3, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this
“STANDING ON THE CUSP OF HISTORY?”
“SHOCKED THE WORLD!”
Oh, come on…let’s be real here.
The Hawks are being competitive which is good…No question.
But, one would think by the above superlatives (AS GOOFY AS THEY ARE) the Hawks have just climbed Mt. Everest without the necessary equipment.
By first
May 3, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this
Who cares — it’s just f-in basketball.
GO JACKETS
By cityofdecatur
May 3, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this
WOW great Reality check this is the toughest venue in America GO HAWKS …… YOU CAN DO IT! Reality check Woodson gets extention progress is some times slow but progress it is (no matter how mad he makes us). Reality check I see the game through announcer Holman’s descriptions I haven’t physically seen them, so those who have savor these moments. Reality check in the end we win (they still have to live in Boston)
GO HAWKS …. DOMINIQUE’S REVENGE Sunday …. May 4, 2008 ….. SHOCK THE WORLD …… GO HAWKS
By Brian M. Parks
May 3, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this
Wow, Phillips Arena was bananas last night!…if only we could play game 7 here. The Hawks made us forget every other sport in town tonight. Boston is giving Joe Johnson “Micheal Jordan” respect. Remember when Paul Pierce made comments saying that Joe didn’t belong in the All-Star game. Eat crow you crybaby!
By josh
May 3, 2008 12:09 PM | Link to this
Thank you Hawks. Thank you You played like champions to me!!!! Couldnt ask for anything more.
By LAJ
May 3, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this
Does anybody know what happened to SEKOU SMITH?
By Jose
May 3, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this
A taste of their own medicine! They laughed and mocked JJ and said that he wasn’t worth an “Allstar appearance”. I am glad KG has openly confessed this. Lesson learned, next time P.P. and R.A watch what you say, it may come to haunt you. LETS GO HAWKS!!!
By Calico
May 3, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this
Good job Hawks thanks for stepping up Marvin Williams
By Curtis
May 3, 2008 1:02 PM | Link to this
Maybe if you sorry fans in Atlanta would have supported the team like this all year maybe they wouldn’t have been an 8th seed in the first place.
By Hawksville Resident
May 3, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this
Great article. Poetic even. I had floor seats for last nights game and it was Unbelievable!! Funniest part was having Zaza grab the microphone at the end..Nothing Easy, Nothing Easy!!! I love you!!Hahaha http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2cQjjvFAf6Q
By Lucius
May 3, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this
Great column Bradley. Where are the AJC haters like T.Moore and C. Tucker? As a former AJC sports writer and AP sports writer that covered the Atlanta Hawks, I appreciated your unbiased basketball coverage. Don’t let Moore’s and Tucker’s backward sports and news philosophies rub off on you.
By Anthony
May 3, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this
TO CURTIS, first seed or eighth seed, what does it matter? We’re still playing aren’t we? Sounds like your teams probably already sitting at home. By the way, we must not be that sorry. We sparked your interest to read this blog and post your sorry comments. Ha Ha. Just enjoy the ride and love life.
By kisha
May 3, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this
FYI….they have started showing the Lebron James/Kevin Garnett “there can only be one” commercials on NBATV. I guess they figured Game 7 is in the books and they wanted to get an early start on promoting the next playoff series.
By TJ
May 3, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this
Is there anyway we can write ESPN and have Stephen A. Smith relieved of his duties an an “ANALyst”? This guy is the most uneducated jerk i’ve ever seen. I really want this dude fired ASAP. If anyone knows how we can get the ball rolling and start a petition or something please let me know. But on a better note, GO HAWKS! It was an honor and a pleasure to be a part of history (biggest crowd in Philips history) and I am so proud of these guys. They refused to lose and i love how they are taking their respect and earning it. NOBODY sat down that entire 4th quarter! What a rush! We can do this thing Sunday. We should play loose and with nothing to lose. The C’s have all the pressure in the world. Their stars have all had little playoff success and they have to be thinking about that. If they lose then it will be devestating for them. We have to come out and punch these dudes in the mouth early and often. It can be done. SHOCK THE WORLD!
By omarboissen
May 3, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this
Come on Hawks fans be more positive for tomorrow’s game 7, here’s why:
I think that the 1:00pm game time for tomorrow’s afternoon game 7 should benefit the Hawks big time. Is not the same having 7 hrs less of rest (from an 8:00pm start) for the older and slower Celtics and worst for them already playing 6 games (two unexpected).
For an early game like tomorrow’s game 7, both teams have to wake up early in the morning for a good breakfast and time to digest it. Then arrive at the court two or three hours before tip off (10:00am to 11:00am).
Saying all that I think that younger bodies like the young Hawks have, should be a lot easier for them and I have no doubt that they will have more energy than the Celtics tomorrow and should play a lot better than the first 3 games at Boston.
When you are younger you don’t need that much rest time, but when you’re older like the Celtics, those 7 hrs less of rest can be mortal and can be the difference on the level of energy.
The Hawks just have to hang in there for the first 3 quaters and I’m sure that if we they are within sriking distance for the start of the 4th quater history will be in the making and the Hawks will shock the world with their athletism, stamina and young legs. Late in the game Boston will be flat. You could see it on game 6, starting with Ray Allen that almost didn’t hit the rim in his shot attemps in the 4th quater.
Remember that in game 5 Joe Johnson almost did not play the 1st half with foul trouble and the Hawks lost the 1st half by 15 points. Then made it a 6 point game in the 3rd quater. They had trouble with the defensive rebounds and the game got open again.
Slowly they are getting their confidence and concentration in Boston and tomorrow’s game 7 will be the game that they will click with better stamina and energy than Boston.
Like I said before tomorrow, with less rest for the older and slower Celtics the Hawks will rebound and play defense much better.
The Big Three Amigos will go fishing on KG’s boat with Doc Rivers and Danny Ainge. Hopefully they will invite Steven A. Smith and Charles Barkley to join them so they can predict the Hawks second round against the Cavs.
LET’S SHOCK THE UNIVERSE AND THE SO CALL EXPERTS…LETS GO HAWKS !!!!!!
By Big Red
May 3, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this
I just read on espn that Marvin will probably not play in game seven because of his knee. That hurts
By Najeh Davenpoop
May 3, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this
From what I’m hearing about Screamin’ A Smith, I’m even more happy I’ve been to all these home games. It doesn’t surprise me that a guy whose best talents are pronouncing European names with emphasis and eating Cheez Doodles is spouting stupidity about this series.
Me @9:08 am, to quote Michael Bolton from Office Space: “Why should I change my name? He’s the one who sucks.”
By MsDee
May 3, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this
Hey u guys, have u all notice the curse has finally ended for us this entire season starting from the 2007 draft to now?? Let me break it down for u:
1) We was able to get the #3 and #11 picks which we could have EASILY have gotten none!!
2) It was good for us not to get #1 pick cause u see what we would have gotten: an injuried “top center”!!
3) It was good for us not to get #2 pick cause we would have gotten Kevin Durant which is yet another 6-4/6-6 wing man that we obviously dont need thanks to Billy Knight.
4) So basically, we got the top player out of that draft in Al Horford..(a breast!!) Who is exactly what we needed this season: a center/pf!!
5) The 5th reason how we know the curse is gone is that we finally broke the longest drout for making it to the playoffs after 9 seasons with ONLY 37 regular season wins!! WOW!!
6) The next reason is we are the “worst” playing the “best” in a game 7 series!! The only game, I might add, to a game 7!! WoW!!
7) The last time we played the Boston in a playoff series was when we were up 3-2 in that series just for the Boston to win 2 back-to-back games to win that series…well, the curse is gone!! Time to SHOCK THE WORLD and knock off the top seed Boston just like they did back in 1988!!
ALL THE SIGNS ARE THERE FOR US TO GO AS FAR AS THE FINALS!!
If we beat Boston, we will play Cavs..if Orlando beat Detroit, who we have had trouble beating, we could possibly play Orlando in that semi-finals!! We play Orlando very well…wow, I think I have gone too far but I am riding this riding until it breaks!! Go Hawks!!
By Najeh Davenpoop
May 3, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this
Durant is 6’11”, and Horford is not a breast, but things did work out real well for the Hawks this year starting in the offseason. Damn it would be great if they could pull off the upset tomorrow.
By MsDee
May 3, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this
U right, Horford is a MONSTER in the post!! Great heads up, Najeh Dav!!
By MsDee
May 3, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this
Well..who cares about Durant or his height..they both are at home watching us!!
By Zaphod221
May 3, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this
Did anyone doubt the talent on this team or did the naysayers merely want a different coach or general manager?
It could be that this bunch is winning despite Woodson. Imagine what the crew might have accomplished under, say, a Phil Jackson or Avery Johnson.
There’s raw potential here, no doubt. A club just doesn’t rise from no where to play .500 ball over six games against the (allegedly) best team in the NBA without an underpinning of talent.
Under the right coach, this Hawks bunch might have risen to the fourth or fifth seed and had a real chance to bit the Celtics in Boston.
That they haven’t been within double-digits in Boston takes a combination of tactician and motivator in the form of the coach.
This Hawks team is succeeding now - despite Woodson’s inability to harness the collective talent during the year.
By Juice
May 3, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this
LOL! If Al Horford is a “breast” then I’m definitly not going to miss Game 7!
By Mark Bradley
May 3, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this
Hello from Boston. It’s cold and rainy here, and the headline in the Boston Globe is “Folding Green.” Pretty amusing, I thought.
By Zaphod221
May 3, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this
“Folding Green.” Ha!
How about:
Soylent Green C’s go dead in fourth, feed furious Hawks frenzy
By Eric
May 3, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this
My employer moved me 18 months ago from Atlanta to Floria. I remember thinking, ‘Wow, it’s going to be really nice cheering for an NBA team (The Magics) that not only good fan support, but knows how to win, too. Though I care deeply about the Magic, nothing takes the place of one’s home team. The hawks made me soooo proud last night. In fact, I left work early yesterday, drove 4 an 1/2 hours, just to be apart of this special occasion. I left the arena with my chest extended!
Oh, on another regard, does anyone think this is somehow a make-up situation for MV? Heck, we needed SOMETHING to energize the City!
By Nookah
May 3, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this
Please guys no more mention of that amalyst on ESPN. He tries to make himself interesting by trying to imitate Dick Vitale….what a loser!!! His opinion means nothing to me.
They’ll be far more comfortable in Boston this time around. It’ll be very interesting. It could be destiny!!!!
Go Hawks!!!!
Nuff Respect!!!
By Zack
May 3, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this
Now lets take this 1 game at a time please. I agree if we win this game then we could make a run but we must win first. I think we will be confident this time around we have nothing to lose and everything to gain. If we can make an early run all the pressure is on them the fans at the Gah-den will be to nervous to be loud. All of this aside the celtics are too old to hang with us. RUN RUN RUN!!!
GO HAWKS!!!!
By pritdapit
May 4, 2008 2:51 AM | Link to this
stfu first support your team go hawks!!!!!!!! amazing what there doing, and for the record JACKETS SUCK GO DAWGS!!!!!!!!!! THIS YEARS NATL CHAMP N CFB
By JuliusCesaer
May 4, 2008 4:26 AM | Link to this
The Hawks will break the Boston curse of losing on Bostons home floor. I say that because the Hawks have lost there five times this season, twice in the regular season and three times in the playoffs. My take is that eventually that streak must end and if ALL THE STARS IN THE HEAVENS ARE IN PERFECT ALIGNMENT then it is time for the Hawks to go TO WORK and waltz into the Boston Garden tomorrow and claim their destiny. Winning game 7 will not only represent DOMINIQUES REVENGE but it will also shatter the Celtic mystique that has gone on for about 70 years. All the great Boston Celtic legends from Sam Jones, KC Jones, Don Nelson, Bill Russell, Bob Cousy, Larry Legend, Robert Parrish, Kevin McKale, Tiny Archibald and many others along with all the ghosts that hang from the rafters at the Boston Garden WONT BE ABLE TO STOP THE HAWKS FROM DRAINING THE CELTICS TANK. WHEN THE HAWKS RUN THE CELTICS AND FINISH THEM OFF TOMORROW, THE CELTICS WILL WALK OFF THE COURT LOSERS WITH NOTHING TO SHOW FOR THEIR immaculate 66-16 REGULAR SEASON RECORD BUT THE WORST DISAPPOINTMENT IN PLAYOFF HISTORY. HAWKS SHOCK THE WORLD AND THE UNIVERSE BY ROUTING THE CELTICS IN GAME 7 AND ADVANCE TO SECOND ROUND OF NBA PLAYOFFS TO FACE KING LABRON JAMES AND THE CLEVELAND CAVALIERS.
By RA
May 4, 2008 7:17 AM | Link to this
Now, I am neither prophet, nor saint. I can’t see how this thing will end, but what I will say is that what the Hawks stand to lose stands in equal measure to what they would gain from a victory today. If they are going to be successful, they must enter into this game with the unflinching idea that they not only have something to lose, but they have something to prove as well. Now make no mistake, they’ve proven a great deal, but if Boston wins today, Atlanta’s success in this series will be reduced to the measure of Boston simply having a few bad games in Atlanta, or bad officiating, or the stars being misaligned, or a black cat cutting in front of the Cel