Sports Columnists

By Wedgie Evans

April 30, 2007 10:04 PM | Link to this

Unfortunately for Michael Gearon, every other team in the league has injuries too. Ask New Jersey how they liked losing two of their four best players for most of the season. Ask Miami how they liked losing their best player for the last month and a half. Ask Phoenix how they liked spending all last year without their best post player. Ask New Orleans how they liked missing their best outside shooter for the entire season. Ask Houston how they liked seeing their starting center miss nearly half the season. The good teams overcome their injuries. The bad teams cave in under their injuries and use it as an excuse at the end of the season.

By steve, atl

April 30, 2007 10:11 PM | Link to this

I just canceled my season tickets after reading that interview. I’m so glad I got to see that unimpressive dolt defend the GM who has yet to take the best pick. By the way, to most fans guys like Deng, Deron, and Roy were the obvious picks and the GM didn’t take any of them. Had a vote by fans drafted for the Hawks we would have made the playoffs. Knight and Woodson are horrible no doubt. But, they are a direct reflection of an ownership group woefully outmatched and these guys will NEVER preside over anything good. They simply don’t have the right stuff to own a successful franchise. I was teetering on whether or not to renew and this interview put me over the edge. No more tickets for me.

By Billy

April 30, 2007 10:17 PM | Link to this

The fact that Gearon thinks that other GMs believe that Knight is right on target proves how out of touch he really is. Maybe other GMs might have taken Marvin, but not when they needed a point guard and a center. Josh Childress still hasn’t lived up to being a first round pick, and Sheldon Williams was a reach. I can only imagine who Knight would pick if he actually had two picks in the top 11. Another small forward with “upside”? What a joke.

By Cary

April 30, 2007 10:39 PM | Link to this

its time to take the hawks out of Atlanta. Im done watching the Hawks. Im supporting the Atlanta Falcons.

By Rashard Wilson

April 30, 2007 10:47 PM | Link to this

I cant believe the statements i just saw in this article.I love this franchise but if the owners are going to accept mediocrity,no,excuse me Complete Garbage in Woody and Billy Knight im Done

Season Tickets are canceled until we get a real ownership group in here.I hope belkin takes the team cause im sure he cant get any lower than this.

Also..lets see if Smoove stays with all this mess around him

By Dejay

April 30, 2007 11:16 PM | Link to this

If anyone wants to question why Philips Arena stays empty more times than not when this team plays, they should read this article. Any other GM east of Elgin Baylor’s office would’ve had their access cards to the office taken and been escorted to their cars with their belongings by now. But for some reason, Billy Knight keeps his job despite it all. Think about it, folks; this team has $13 million committed to FOUR BACKUP POINT GUARDS. And it wasn’t as if the guys BK passed up in the lottery were selected 8-12 spots behind his pick; Deng, Deron Williams, and Brandon Roy were picked RIGHT AFTER BK WAS DONE. If Deng and Deron were picked instead of MW and Childress, they would’ve made the playoffs LAST YEAR let alone this season. You could’ve found folks on this forum, Realgm, ESPN, Hawksquawk, ANYWHERE, to make better picks for this team than what BK has done over the last three years. The sweet spot in the NBA draft is now known for being the guy picking BEHIND THE HAWKS; you’re almost guaranteed to have an All-Star in waiting.

Despite high lotto picks for the last three years, this team only has two guys on the ENTIRE ROSTER who would start on five other teams in the league (JJ and Smith). That says more than enough about BK’s inability to bring in talent right there.

With Golden State now making the postseason, the Hawks are all alone in terms of futility. There’s no one else for this franchise to hide behind now. Twenty-three years since their last All-Star selection (longest in North American sports). Four straight 50-loss seasons (longest in NBA). Eight straight years out of the playoffs (longest in NBA). Thirty-six years since last making the NBA Finals (longest in NBA). Almost a half-century since winning it all, when they were in St. Louis.

These facts can no longer be ignored when it comes to this organization or lack thereof. When teams from now-defunct leagues come here and win titles quicker than this bunch (see Chiefs and Knights), that should tell you something. The more things change….

By Matthew At The SLC

April 30, 2007 11:22 PM | Link to this

Hey, Mark Bradley, instead of everyone asking if Michael Vick is smoking something, I think the police in Atlanta need to investigate this idiot, because he’s clearly living in an altered reality.

HEY DUDE! THERE IS ARE THREE REASONS WHY YOUR TEAM SUCKS:

Billy Knight

Poor ownership on YOUR dumb@$$ part

and BILLY FREAKING KNIGHT!!!

Michael Gearon, you have to be a pi$$-poor GM to be worse than Isiah Thomas.

Everyone, I give you BILLY KNIGHT.

A joke of a GM, a joke of a team, a JOKE of an owner. Dude, pack up and leave Atlanta. Why don’t you and the rest of the idiots sell to Liberty Mutual. They can’t be any worse than you morons. Atlanta is supposed to be a Fortune 500 capitol in this country. Are you telling me we don’t have a couple of billionaires sitting around who could save the Hawks and Thrashers from the GROSS NEGLIGENCE of these idiots or what could be worse than them: Steve Belkin? Can’t both the NHL and the NBA Commisioners force these idiots to sell to someone who actually knows what they’re doing? Someone who has the freaking ability to fire THE WORST GM IN EVERY SPORT EVER PLAYED!!!

Mark Bradley, is there a way that the hockey / basketball fans in Atlanta (remember when Atlanta was an awesome basketball town on par with Boston and New York?) can sue these idiots for their gross negligence? I’m dead serious. Can we do a class action suit against these guys for ruining one team, and holding another team back in its development that it took 7 damn years to reach the playoffs and that just got swept out? Can’t we as fans do anything to get these incompetant boobs to sell the team to someone who’s smart enough to see that Billy Knight needed to be fired the second he refused to draft the point gaurd we needed two years ago? Come on Bradley… this USED to be a basketball town. These jokers and Billy Knight have done more harm than Pete Babcock ever could, and who would have thought that was humanly possible? There has to be some precedent that if your teneure is WORSE than Pete Babcock’s, that the fans can sue and you have to be forced to sell the team. Something has to be done. There has to be a way.

By Michael Gearon Jr

April 30, 2007 11:24 PM | Link to this

It appears as though my comments have upset and alienated my fellow Atlanta Hawks supporters. Ticket holders of Atlanta, I understand the frustration with the team. Hell, i’m frustrated too! But the process it takes to build a consistent winner has been just that, a process. We continue to see improvement in win total and the players we have drafted in the past few drafts. Billy Knight has us on the right track and we believe Coach Woodson is making the right moves on the sideline. Are Woodson & Knight perfect? No. But they will be back next year and we look forward to their return. Fellow Hawks fans, The losing hasn’t been easy, but the support of Hawks fans is pivotal as we strive to bring a winner to the great city of Atlanta. We appreciate you the fans and your patientice with your Atlanta Hawks and look forward to this years draft and a successful 2007-2008 campaign. I will be checking this blog and hopefully be able to answer any questions, you the fans have about our process [excluding any questions about the legal situation with the Atlanta Spirit]. Thanks again Atlanta and let’s go Hawks!

Michael Gearon Jr

By NumbaOneFan

April 30, 2007 11:47 PM | Link to this

Billy Knight and Mike Woodson Suuuuck Donkeeeey Dixxxx. Gearon please share some of that dank your smoking. What a Cluster Phuck this Sprit Group is… No one will be at Phillips next year if they retain either of those clowns Bliily and Woody. Pleas take your half assed franchises out of here we don’t need this SHIIIIIIIT

By LL Cool Scott

April 30, 2007 11:47 PM | Link to this

Please tell me that was solely for public relations…Please tell me those quotes were taken out of context…Please tell me you’re not drinking Billy Knight’s Kool-Aid…That article almost made me lose all hope.

By Dejay

April 30, 2007 11:48 PM | Link to this

In all due respect, ARE YOU KIDDING ME? This team has been a running punchline for the better part of a decade, have missed with every lottery pick (Childress over Deng, MW over Paul/D. Williams, Shelden over Roy) and are still regarded as being years away from being competitive for playoff action. This team may be the youngest in the league but that doesn’t hold water for anyone who pays REAL $$$ to see them get smoked by the competition. And as far as injuries go, the rest of the league aren’t exempt from them, either. Good franchises don’t use them as excuses for being this bad, only teams like this one does, which explains why they are who they are. Think about it, Mr. Gearon; THE EXPANSION BOBCATS ARE BETTER THAN THIS TEAM RIGHT NOW.

To say that Hawk fans here are frustrated isn’t the word it. I could use a few others but I really don’t think you’d want to read them. We see teams like the Heat, Jazz, Cavaliers, and Warriors be in the same position the Hawks were several years ago. All of them to some extent receive their ‘get out of NBA-jail free’ cards while the Hawks remain stuck on Alcatraz Island. When will THIS team get their Labron James? When will THIS team get a player in the lottery who makes a REAL difference on the court and not some mid-range shooter (see Williams, Marvin) or career 6th man (see Childress, Joshua) who can’t create his own shot if he’s 15 feet from the basket with someone guarding him? When will THIS team start winning games that MATTER? Can you answer those questions or will we have to wait on a third arena to be built for this team?

By Please move to Las Vegas

April 30, 2007 11:51 PM | Link to this

We don’t want you here anymore after reading the article. I wish the auto guy from Dallas would have bought the team. You are accepting losing and letting people that have always lost run your organization. My friend AG in NY would do a better job than any of you morons. Let me know if you want his number so you can bring in a real GM.

By Cary

April 30, 2007 11:52 PM | Link to this

I cant wait this coming offseason, This team will go straight down the hill. With the 1st Pick, Atlanta Hawks select Kevin Durant. With the 11 pick, Hawks select Noah. Billy will continue to make the same mistake like he did passing on CP3, Deron,Deng, Marcus Williams and Brandon Roy. U thought it was ok for Billy to draft shelden Williams thinking he can play center position and never even give him a workout? WOW!! Paying a Backup Point Guard(Speedy) and pay him 25 mill for 4 years just to sit on the bench? WOW!! Paying Lo Wright 3 Mill jus 2 get in the game and get fouled out? WOW!! Trading 2nd round 2007 Pick for another backup PG(AJ)?? WOW. I have a feeling Billy will make the same mistake with the draft pick. U will continue 2 see more empty seats next year with Billy & Woodson around. Bye Bye HAWKS!! LETS GO ATLANTA FALCONS!!! VICK!!!

By LL Cool Scott

May 1, 2007 12:02 AM | Link to this

I had to read that again to believe it. I can’t get over the defense of Billy Knight. The only thing keeping me from slitting my wrists the past few months was the certainty that this season would be the one to get Billy Knight fired. Open your eyes. He’s INCOMPETENT. That was literally the most depressing thing I’ve ever read about my Hawks.

By THE BK Viking would do better than BK (Billy Knight)

May 1, 2007 12:02 AM | Link to this

The guy in the Burger King commercial would do a better job than Billy Knight. Again, it should be AG running the organization not BK. At least AG roots for a winning team like the Bulls. I am sure we will draft someone next year that will be 12 spots ahead of where they should have gone. If I was seven inches taller (I am 6’1) I might be a candidate even though I am terrible and can’t jump.

By cary

May 1, 2007 12:09 AM | Link to this

by the way, defense dont win games. u cant put the ball in the basket when playing defense.

By NumbaOneFan

May 1, 2007 12:14 AM | Link to this

Dear Mr Gearon how dare you come on here and post saying you are going to keep Billy Knight and Mike Woodson…. what are you an idiot? Anyone knows Billy Knight couldn’t draft talent unless it was a hooker from an Vegas. He is the epitomy of a lousy GM and has blown every draft except when he got lucky with Josh Smith…. everyone else sucks. As far as Woodson hes a drunk and cant even remember the name of his players as exibited during numerous timeouts when trying to call a game winning play. Sir I watched and supported the Hawks when your old man ran them for Ted Turner and Hubie Brown was the coach. Yes you have some talent on board who you clain is developing yet almost any coach know to man could have done so more proficiently and in a shorter period of time. How can you defend this idiot for passing on superior talent to draft lesser players with number one picks. How can you be so stupid as to overpay for Joe Johnson. How can you justify draftying that stiff Williams from Duke with top 10 pick while passing on all star caliber oint guards and then over pay for a point guard with long history of injuries. How can you defend and keep a coach whose rotations are the worse i the league bar none. How can you defend the fact that this coach cannot find minutes to develop the talent that sit on the bench. Players cannot develop unles they are getting minutes. I was one that predicted this team wuld win around 40 gamnes this season and saw nothing but poor coaching and the smug attitude of your so called GM. Im sorry Mr gearon but you are no Mike Gearon Sr. I can assure you sir that even if your team gets lucky enough to get the top pick and the 11th pick in this years draft….. Mr Knight will find a way to screw that up and draft another forward or better yet even if he gets it right those 2 draft chpices will never develop undet the coaching tutelage of one Mike Woodson. Now please do us few remaining Hawks fansa favor and get rid of these two individuals who are nothing but a joke and a cancer. Are you so blind as to not see what the rest of us are seeing and talking about. If you think we on this blog do not know what were talking about then why is your franchise the laughing stock of the city and the league. Enough of this madness, be a man and hire the right people for the job. Do not insult our intelligence and declare you will monitor this blog to ger our reactions. If you really want to get the inside scoop on whats wrong with your team, do yourself a favor and go back and read the old blogs to see what exactly is wrong with the hawks, it’s Billy and Woody. I have friends who know people that work for you, the word is out that you guys will be losing control to the jerk from Boston. So now that you know how many of us feel maybe you will reconsider your stupid decission to bring back Billy and Woody.

By Dejay

May 1, 2007 12:22 AM | Link to this

The fact that Billy Knight still has a job right now is more depressing than watching Eugene Robinson get arrested the night before the Super Bowl. Say what you want about Arthur Blank, at least he gives the impression that he WANTS to win and backs it up with $$$, not excuses of being ‘too young’ or ‘having injuries’. He said that not making the playoffs last year wasn’t good enough and when they didn’t, he immediately blew out the coach. He’s not perfect but the Falcons have won more big games over the last five years than the Hawks have over the last TWENTY+. That’s what this franchise has been lacking for years now; ACCOUNTABILITY. One team does (to some extent) and have a waiting list for tickets. One doesn’t and can’t give away seats to the homeless in a snowstorm.

And as far as this being a ‘process’, get real. It didn’t take this long for OJ to find the ‘real killers’ or for the Georgia Dome to be built. This ‘process’ was a flawed one from the jump, starting with putting someone in charge who has built as many playoff teams as GM as I have.

By Peerless' Mama

May 1, 2007 12:24 AM | Link to this

Mr. Gearon, if that was indeed your post, please try to ignore the rudeness here…….

By vdunkndunk

May 1, 2007 12:40 AM | Link to this

I’ve talked with BK in person a couple of times at Hawks games, and I really like him. He’s a nice guy, he’s well spoken, he’s friendly, and he’s clearly enthusiastic about what he’s doing. In fact, I was shocked by how personable he was considering the largely negative reputation he has earned with the media.

Not only that, but I also think that many in Atlanta are being a bit hard on him, because I think he certainly could have done a worse job under the circumstances. Josh Smith and Joe Johnson, in particular, were great acquisitions; Zaza has proven to be a bargain; most of BK’s draft misses still at least look like they can play in the NBA; and, for the most part, the Hawks have maintained a good deal of cap flexibility. So I can agree that BK is doing better than Babcock.

BUT…with that being said, four moves much discussed moves in particular have really shaken my confidence in BK over the years. First: Luol Deng and Andre Iguodola were generally thought to be better than Josh Childress, and while Chills is a great guy and a competent player, Luol Deng is a future all-star.

Second: While it’s true that most GM’s thought Marvin would eventually be the best player in his draft class, most people also thought that SF wasn’t a position of need for the Hawks and that the difference between Chris Paul or Deron Williams at PG, a position of need, and Marvin Williams, at the only position were the Hawks actually had a logjam, was negligible enough that we should have filled the need. Turns out that most people were right.

Third: Shelden Williams is short and unathletic relative to other NBA PF’s, and he was a serious reach in the top 5. In fact, I’m not sure he deserved to be a lottery pick. This was a moved that smacked of desparation and I don’t think it will pay off.

Finally: we overpaid for Speedy, a small, fragile, injury-prone PG who can’t shoot - another move that smacks of desparation, and which, furthermore, has now hamstrung our cap flexibility. It seems very likely to me that Speedy’s best years in the NBA are already behind him.

The worst part about the above mistakes to me is that I’m not speaking out of hindsight bias here; in fact, I readily acknowledge that no one can bat .1000 in the draft, and that as fans we often expect too much from GM’s and hold them to impossible standards based on 20-20 hindsight.

The problem, however, is that, for the most part, BK went agaist consensus thinking for these picks, but time has basically vindicated the consensus view. I would say that most people are not surprised that Deng is better than Childress, or that the Hawks would have been better off with a nice young PG, or that Shelden was a reach at number 5, or that Speedy spent a significant portion of this season injured.

In sum, then, I strongly believe that BK has done some nice things for this franchise and put the Hawks in a position that the Knicks, for instance, would love to be in. But, on the flipside, thoughts of what could have been (i.e., thoughts of Luol Deng, Chris Paul, Deron Williams, Brandon Roy, etc.) will continue to haunt Hawks fans for years to come unless we happen to land Oden or Durant in the draft this summer, along with a nice PG at 11. (In that case, I have a feeling all will be forgiven in the end, because winning is the only thing that will make people believers.)

By Matthew At The SLC

May 1, 2007 12:46 AM | Link to this

No, Mr, Gearon, don’t ignore it, because if you are going to continue to be ignorant and stupid, then you deserve every verbal beatdown coming your way. Once again, Gearon, you have to be a pi$$-poor GM to be worse than Isiah Thomas.

Once again, I give you all… BILLY KNIGHT!!!

Hear’s the thing Gearon, and this is the only thing you should ask yourself when it comes to running your teams. Would Arthur have fired Billy Knight by now? That answer is, Arthur Blank would have fired Billy Knight for passing on Chris Paul and refusing to draft players we need, instead drafting three 3’s in a row, and signing THREE BACK UP POINT GUARDS to try and start. Then he goes and picks a player from Duke, which is ALWAYS A BAD MOVE… those guys NEVER translate to the NBA.

Dude, Gearon, you have money, right? SO BUY A GOD D@MNED CLUE YOU IDIOT!!!

By mavid

May 1, 2007 12:56 AM | Link to this

vdunkndunk said it best.

EVERYTHING he said was on point.

By mavid

May 1, 2007 1:09 AM | Link to this

Mr. Gearon,

If you really will answer some questions, there are 3 that I am VERY curious about.

Now, I am a DIEHARD fan and, unlike some of these others, I am not giving up on the Hawks (I couldn’t, even if I wanted to… well, actually, I probably could if you guys draft Noah… so please do not do that).

The 3 biggest questions I have had for awhile:

1) Why did you take Shelden so high without even working him out? Could BK not have traded down? What did you see in Shelly that warranted such a high selection? He has played EXACTLY how I thought he would, and this is why I hated picking him so high.

2) I trust that the team doctors took a look at Speedy before the signing. What did they say? I have a hard time believing his injury problems weren’t evident. Was this a calculated gamble?

3)What is your take on Woodson’s offensive style? Is our team not built to run? It’s like BK has built an athletic team that should run, but Woody won’t implement that type of offense. What is going on there? Why not take advantage of our athletic forwards? These halfcourt sets make no sense for this team. It’s no coincidence that some of our best games came against up-tempo teams like GS, PHX, and Denver. We adapted to their up-tempo style, and we looked good.

Care to comment on any of these.

By Wedgie Evans

May 1, 2007 1:11 AM | Link to this

I don’t even really have a problem with Michael Gearon attempting to defend the track records of Woodson and Knight. Woodson in particular has never been given a chance to coach a competent roster. As badly as Knight has performed over the last two years, he took the right approach when he arrived by cleaning house and starting afresh instead of trying to patch up the existing roster like Isiah Thomas. With the short lifespans that coaches and GMs see in the league, that took balls. Deng and Paul may be better than Childress and M. Williams, but the players the Hawks selected are not busts by any means. I still think BK should be fired now and Woodson should be given one more year maximum, but if Gearon wants to defend them I don’t have a big problem with that.

What I really have a problem with is Gearon repeatedly using injuries as an excuse. Pardon my Mandarin, but are you f*** kidding me? Like I pointed out earlier, every NBA team has injuries. Hell, every sports team has key injuries that they have to overcome. At least own up to the fact that this team needs improvement and should be a playoff contender in the weak-a* Eastern Conference by now. Denying that very obvious fact is what is upsetting and alienating Hawks supporters. Acting like this team is progressing at an acceptable rate makes me think Gearon’s been spending too much time in Maryland courtrooms to know what’s going on in Philips Arena.

Mr. Gearon, although your attempt to explain away the Hawks’ lack of success doesn’t hold up, it’s nice that you are reading this blog and attempting to take into account the opinions of the few fans your team has left. I sincerely appreciate that, and I wish your fellow co-owners would do the same thing more often. While you are at it, it would be nice if you got the sand out of the Philips Arena ushers’ vaginas and let them allow fans to move down into empty seats in the lower bowl. Considering that Philips Arena has had one of the worst attendance figures in the NBA during its entire history, it’s quite frankly ridiculous that the ushers are so uptight about upper-deck patrons moving down, especially when compared to Turner Field ushers who are usually very agreeable about that. When Time Warner owned the Hawks, they used to have a promotion where the first 300 fans or so could trade in their upper-level tickets for lower level seats in a particular section. This was a nice reward for the few loyal fans willing to pay money to watch a perennially sub-.500 team, and enhanced the atmosphere within the arena, providing at least something resembling a home-court advantage. The Indiana Pacers allow their fans to move down — there’s no reason why the Hawks’ fans shouldn’t be allowed to do the same.

By DHD

May 1, 2007 1:51 AM | Link to this

“If we weren’t injured….”

If your Aunt Myrtle had a mustache, she’d be your Uncle Fred.

Ernie Johnson, Sr

By Mr C.

May 1, 2007 1:54 AM | Link to this

Great blog. I have to give Mr. Gearon credit for at least posting on this blog despite some of the insults.

1. Some of the comments from Mr. Gearon are unbelieveable. I am personally fed up with Billy Knight’s move. Joe Johnson is a great player but giving up 2 first round picks plus Boris Diaw for a restricted free agent was a dumb move considering the fact that the Suns had just signed Nash and still had to sign Stoudemire. There was no way the Suns gives Joe Johnson the max contract. The least Billy Knight could have done was to protect the pick against the lottery. Guess what’s going to happen this summer, the Hawks will get the 4th pick and ship it to Phoenix. Check out what Indiana did with the pick for Al Harrington.

2. How can a GM say that he doesn’t care about public opinion. It should always be about PR since the Hawks has the worst record in the past 3 yrs. Billy doen’t give a rat about the fans. Why should we support such a GM. Let me know when a new GM comes to town.

3. I won’t fault BK for passing on Chris Paul or Deron Williams. Many of the talking head experts had Marvin Williams as the next big thing. However selecting Sheldon Williams was a reach when you don’t have a PG. Wile not trade down. While make it known to the world that you would pick SW. Where’s is his poker hand? Getting Speedy Claxton was a dumb move.

Let me point something out for Mr. Gearon, if the Hawks don’t start winning in a yr or two, Joe Johnson will ask out and start looking for a winning team. You can take it from the horses mouth. Call it frustruation with losing.

By Michael Gearon Jr

May 1, 2007 3:47 AM | Link to this

**I am both overwhelmed and excited to see the outpouring of feelings Atlanta has for our Hawks! I am not hurt by the insults or name calling because I can see the knowledge and passion you all have for our team! I will attempt to answer all questions asked of me, but please give me time to respond to everyone’s questions and I hope I can answer some questions, relieve some tensions and get you excited for this year’s draft! Please bear with me Hawks fans and stay patient, I will answer as many questions as I can. Thanks Hawks fans!

Michael Gearon Jr.**

By Michael Gearon Jr

May 1, 2007 4:47 AM | Link to this

A couple of quick things I want to say before I answer any additional questions:

Billy Knight is the smartest basketball man I have EVER known and I have total faith and confidence in all of his basketball knowledge and know how. He played in the NBA for goodness sakes! In reference to the baseball analogy made in the article, I will take it a step further. Many people on this blog feel that we have not drafted who you wanted us to draft. We drafted the best players available each time. Are we 4 for 4 with 4 homeruns? No, but i’d say we’re at least 2 for 4 with a stolen base and a ground ruled double.

Mike Woodson is a winner. Ignore his record with the Hawks and look at the pedigree of coaching he has come from. He’s coached on an NBA Champion in Detroit. He’s coached under Larry Brown. That alone excuses anything bad that’s happened since he’s coached here. Coach Woodson knows basketball and I believe he’s one of the brightest young basketball minds, not just in the NBA, but in the whole world. He wouldn’t be hired as your coach if I didn’t believe that to be true. Coach Woodson is a teacher and a solid X & O guy and he is truly becoming one of the league’s best coaches while developing this roster to its full potential.

Finally, next season I expect the Hawks to be winners. There can and will be no tolerance for losing. I believe if we stay healthy and our young players continue to develop at their current rate that we will be the best team in basketball and contend for an NBA title next season. We have what it takes to win on the court with our players & our coaching staff and in a little place called our heart. Bear with us Hawks fans, the wait is almost over! I will begin to answer questions…

Michael Gearon Jr

By Don

May 1, 2007 6:35 AM | Link to this

Mr. Gearon,

Is Salim Stoudamire going to be allowed to play next year?

Or is playing time going to based on how much Knight has decided to pay players (i.e. Claxton’s PT)…that’s a trait, sadly, left over from the Babcock era, going back to the days of Jon Contract.

So are you going to let a fundamental player from Arizona leave just like Jason Terry?

Your analogizes (4 for 4 as even an option and then 2 for 4) Seriously have you ever, watched baseball? .500 is never done. I’d say this team is scraping the Mendoza line…

In any case, best of luck to you.

Don

By Khump

May 1, 2007 7:03 AM | Link to this

You do not know anything about basketball my man. Please do not but Joe Dumars and Billy Knight in the same conversation at all.

You can keep having that Darko conversation if you want ! Darko is going into his 4th year and he is just 21 yrs old. Did you see the playoff’s ! He out played Atlanta’s own Dwight Howard.

The Piston did not need C.Anthony because that had T.Prince, and I would take Prince in the Pistons system any day. C.Anothy needs 20 plus shots a game, and the Pistons would not have won the tittle in 04 with him either.

Bosh is a nice talent but he is playing the 4 and they have R.Wallace and A.McDyess as well, plus these guys would of been playing under Larry Brown, and he hates rooks.

It takes big guys longer to develop, especially when you do not play for 2.55 yes like Darko. If the hawks where smart they should go and get him this summer. This past year was like Darko’s rookie year in the NBA. He is already better than The Hawks number one pick from this past year S. Williams !

By Ken

May 1, 2007 7:11 AM | Link to this

I was initially happy that the Hawks would have local ownership but given the way that they are determined to stick with Billy Knight/Mike Woodson no matter how poor a job they do, I can only hope that the team will be awarded to Steve Belkin ASAP. At least, I know he will fire Knight/Woodson on the day he was placed in charge

By Ernest

May 1, 2007 7:38 AM | Link to this

Michael:

1 - What does management see as the greatest need position wise, for the Hawks to go to the next level?

2 - Assuming you only get one pick in the upcoming draft, will you look at BPA or filling a need?

By Paul

May 1, 2007 7:48 AM | Link to this

Of course the other GMs think Knight is doing a good job. The last thing they want is someone in Atlanta who could make the team competitive. A couple of years ago I vowed not to attend another Hawks game until Knight was fired. I haven’t regretted that decision.

By Scott

May 1, 2007 8:09 AM | Link to this

Mr Gearon, it just shows how out of touch with reality you are trying to convince us true Hawk fans that Billy Knight is competent. The ONLY good I got out of this season was knowing that Billy would FINALLY be gone, NOW you say he’s going to stay. What is wrong with you and your other mindless owners. The ENTIRE TOWN OF ATLANTA WANTS HIM GONE! Don’t you see that? Shelden Williams, Speedy Claxton, Lorenzen Wright, J. Chill, Marvin, etc. The guy stinks, and don’t give me this “Shelden played well at the end of the year Garbage” - He was playing against BUMS. I was a season ticket holder back in ‘86, ‘87, and ‘88 - it is sad I didn’t even go to ONE game this year because I am at the point where I want us to lose just to get rid of Knight. Well, with owners like you, you can’t “win for losing.” You and the other low Spirits are worthless. Thanks for making the Hawks worse than they were.

By Georgiaboy

May 1, 2007 8:19 AM | Link to this

Dear Mr. Gearon Jr, I like the fact that you were man enough to respond to our comments in this blog. It shows you really care about what the fans think about this franchise and the direction it’s going in. Sadly, I don’t your GM Billy Knight cares. I will give Coach Woodson a pass on this season because he is not the one putting the pieces in place. It is not his fault we have no PG and C and 8 forwards. I hoped that you and the rest of the owners make sure Billy finally gets the PG we need in the draft and hopefully a Center, if we even get a draft pick. Right now with his decisions Billy is no better than Pete Babcock. I hate to see Billy destroy this franchise and your investment. I know you and the other owners will not admit it publicy, but you all know the Marvin and Shelden Williams picks were terrible. The Speedy Claxton signing was the worst free agent deal in our history. And trading a 2nd round pick for A. Johnson was crazy. I like J.Childress so I will give him a pass but we could’ve had a star in the making with Deng. Please Fire Knight before it’s to late, everyone in ATL will applaud you.

By TCJ

May 1, 2007 8:25 AM | Link to this

Every year it’s wait til next year

By Gutz

May 1, 2007 8:41 AM | Link to this

Honestly guys I believe we should Woodson at least another year considering what he has had to work with. He doesn’t draft the players does he? If anyone has to go it HAS to be Billy Knight. He really is a horrible GM who might be able to scout talent but has NO CLUE how to build an all around team. That is VERY evident in the makeup of our Hawks today. 13million for 3 horrible backup PG? that is just awful. NO real center or PG and were about to be in what year 4 of the rebuilding process? That is unacceptable period!!!! I just don’t see how we expect Woodson to succeed with this flawed roster with no real PG or Center to even compete with. Then with all the injuries this year, i’m surprised we even won 30games to be honest. I just think Woodson deserves one more year but I agree Billy Knight has got to go before he screws our upcoming draft up.

By John

May 1, 2007 8:45 AM | Link to this

Mr. Gearon, your comments are not what we in Atlanta need right now. We were “frustrated” three years ago, now it goes far beyond that.

First, by defending Billy and Woody you are defining your expectations for the team. You have just told everyone that this level of play meets your standards - otherwise you’d have to do something else to show the organization that this is totally unacceptable.

We fans realize that you can’t build a winner over night. But what we need is some hope - so we can at least focus on the future. Unless we get incredibly lucky in the draft there is little room for optimism. We blew our cap space on speedy and Lo, and we seem to be also limited in making trades by the lawsuit. So what we have now for talent and coaching is essentially what we’ll have next year. That doesn’t provide much hope to the fans. There is nothing to get excited about or even to delude ourselves about. We know exactly what we are going to get. And that is sad.

I do applaud Mr. Gearon for stepping up and dealing with the fans. I hope he keeps it up. It is a real shame that Billy Knight isn’t willing to talk with the media more frequently - that should be part of his job. He may be a brilliant basketball mind but he doesn’t show it to the fans.

By KP

May 1, 2007 9:04 AM | Link to this

Mr. Gearon,

I too appreciate you coming on the blog to speak with the fans. The Hawks organization should be thankful that they still have a few fans to support a losing team.

I can understand that you want to defend the GM you hired, but you have to admit he has not performed well with building this team. You can’t continue to draft the best player available if they all play the same position and call that a team. If you are going to draft the BPA, then you need to retain the best player for your team and trade away the others the eliminate the logjam and fill the needs for other positions.

I feel that we do have a core of good young players (Joe, Josh Smith, Marvin). But our goals for this off-season have to be to acquire a point guard (preferably Mike Conely, even if we need to trade up to get him) and a center. This draft (assuming we get both picks) is a good opportunity to get both. It will be unacceptable to not fill both of these needs in some way this off season. It’s crazy that this team has been lacking at both of these positions for the last 3 years! The acquisition of Speedy Claxton has to be the worst FA pickup in NBA history. Even our team captain, Joe Johnson, has stated that our team needs a better point guard. Has the option of buying out his contract come up? I’m sure we can’t trade him, because there isn’t a GM alive who would take him and his salary.

You say that you care about this organization, please see to it that we get a STARTING QUALITY point guard and a servicable center this off season.

By JDS

May 1, 2007 9:11 AM | Link to this

A couple of questions that people have already asked keep coming up for me as a season ticket holder.

1. How can BK possibly believe that he can just dismiss public opinion. Ultimately he should at least try to understand where fans are coming from yet he never seems to explain anything.

2. Are Mike Woodson and BK on the same page as direction for this team? It seems that BK is trying to build some type of running team(curiously with no real PG) but Mike Woodson is coaching a halfcourt grind it out type of team. There is so much standing around on offense that it appears that there is no offense.

I have to disagree with you on you saying that Mike Woodson is a winner, by definition he is not a winner as a head coach. At some point and I really wished it was this season you have to realize that there is something wrong with Woodson as a coach, it doesn’t appear that the playeres play for him and they seem way to quick to give up in games so something is missing with Woodson and his relationship with these Hawks players.

By smartguy

May 1, 2007 9:12 AM | Link to this

Wow. What a roller coaaster. When I first read Gearon’s comments, I was sick to my stomach. But after reading the outpouring of negativity, I am much enthused. Maybe the Spirit have thier opinion that everything is okay, but hopefully they can’t ignore the overwhelming majority (90% or so?) opposing the current situation.

Billy may have a decent handle on player evaluation and how to build a team, but his deliberate neglect of point guard and center are inexcusable. It is very similar as to how the Falcons have purposely neglected the offensive line (before this draft, the highest pick they used in several years was one fifth rounder). Watching the Hawks defense collapse in the middle was just like watching the Falcons line get imploded in pass protection. The draft is crucial for these positions, and Billy has passed on several opportunities for quality players. Right now, I agree that in a month Billy could either look like a complete genius or a total idiot, but it shouldn’t come down to ping pong balls in the first place.

Regarding Woody, there is not much else I can say that I haven’t already said. He may have done a decent job developing players, but the Head Coach’s job is to WIN GAMES. Injuries are no excuse for blowing games that we should have won. Nor is there an excuse for not putting the best players on the court; Salim and Solo particularly come to mind. His personal issues have dictated player’s minutes. This is another Larry Brown trait, although not a good one.

Woody’s lack of offense is also seen as a major problem. He emphasizes defense, defense, defense, and as a result, we stink on offense. I personally am not qualified to draw up NBA offensive sets, but I don’t need to know how to sculpt in order to know whether a sculpture works or not. Particularly, in critical times, such as late in close games and coming out of a timeout, I find that our offense usually consists of an isolation of either JJ or T Lue, usually resulting in another failed offensive possession. Further, Woody is incapable of exploiting mismatches (which I think is quite important when you have four guys on the court who are at least 6’8”). Ultimately, let me say this, I have a very hard time supporting a team when I feel that the Head Coach is not giving us every chance to win games.

Woody may have a winning record at all levels before this one. He could have been undefeated as a player and an assistant, but he has never won as a head coach. To repeat, Mike Woodson hasn’t won as a Head Coach, ever.

My last complaint with Woody is that he seems to have problems with more guys than not. Not only the public feuds with Salim, Smooth, Marvin, Sheldon, and Solo (more private with Solo I guess), but he routinely blames losses on players. Head coaches should not call out players after losing as frequently and as easily as Woody does. He kicks them when they’re down and he gloats on them when they’re up. I suggest that the Head Coach should be more of a balance of team morale. Bill Pacells is the master at this. After big wins, he finds something to criticize (and praise is very limited), and after bad losses, he finds something positive. Again, maybe Woody is too close to Larry Brown is this regard.

Its great to see all the enthusiasm for the Hawks. Unfortunately, like many of you, I too have had to reduce my support of the team. After attending a little more than half of the home games, for about five years, I could no longer enjoy the experience about half way through this season. I found that watching games at the arena was more painful than enjoyable. The problem wasn’t the players, it was the way they played. And I don’t mean a lack of effort, I mean that I just couldn’t watch them play under Woody’s coaching style.

Watching Golden State Sunday night, all I could think of is that this could be the Atlanta. I loved the way the Warriors played, and just as impressive was the atmosphere of that arena. The Hawks have similar personnel, and the fans (celebs and all) would show up just as fanatical. As we currently sit, I truly believe the main ingredient to the Hawks becoming a perinnial powerhouse is a good head coach. It won’t matter who we draft if we don’t get a new coach.

Mr Gearon, your comments, and the reaction to them, point to the prevailing opinion that the Hawks fans may be better served with a change in ownership. Again, the ownership group may have its own opinions, and I am not one to say that fans should run a franchise, but when an overwhelming majority of the fanbase is so unenthused and turned off, isn’t it time to make a change? Show us that you want us back, show us that you know whats going on, show us that OUR TEAM would/could be in good hands for decades to come.

We want to be fans, and so do many more. Give us a chance. Make a change.

By Paul Hamilton

May 1, 2007 9:17 AM | Link to this

What a poor excuse, I guess injuries are the cause for all problems. The Falcons learned that just admiting you screwed up and your team sucks, is a better option than blaming others or injuries, because every team in every sport encounters them. I hurt my back pretty bad a few years ago, guess I should pack it in and stop living.

By John Chambers

May 1, 2007 9:19 AM | Link to this

Kevin Mchale is by far the worst GM in basketball. Followed by Danny Ainge and Isaiah Thomas. Seven teams passed on Luol Deng and the Bucks and Jazz passed on Chris Paul. No one loved Paul before the draft, he was undersized, unathletic and was not a sure thing as everyone now says. Anyway, Chris Paul is at home watching the playoffs.

If you are going to point the bad moves, point out the good ones too. Good moves include: Drafted Boris Diaw (NBA most improved) Drafted Josh Smith (An absolute steal) Traded for Joe Johnson (USA Olympian/All Star) Traded Al Harrington for a first round pick (Mike Conley perhaps?) Signed Zaza Pachulia (Good value/backup) Not trading a second round pick to the Lakers which ended up being Salim Stoudamire ( A steal in the second round) Signed Tyronne Lue (kept him away from the Lakers who were after him) Drafted Josh Childress. Why would they have selected Deng when they planned on taking Smith later in the 1st round?) Not drafting JJ Redick

Drafting Marvin Williams. 34 minutes 13 ppg, 5 rpg. (He is only 20 years old people) If he played minutes equivalent to Paul he would average 15ppg 6rpg. Paul averaged 17ppg 9apg. Paul is better now, but Marvin is gaining on him and will likely become the best player in that draft.

To say that Billy Knight can’t draft is obsurd. He had done, fine, not great, but fine and the best is yet to come.

By Paul

May 1, 2007 9:29 AM | Link to this

You people need to relax. We’re going to make the playoffs next year and you all should know that. So what, we fire the GM and coach and we make the playoffs. We don’t, and we make the playoffs. Either way we’ll probably make the playoffs (unless we get a new coach and the young players have to learn a new system). I am aware of the mistakes that Billy and Woody have made. But along with that criticsm, there should be praise for the things they’ve done right.

We are making the playoffs next year, isnt that the goal? Are there actually folks out there who DON’T think we’re going to make the playoffs?

By John Chambers

May 1, 2007 9:34 AM | Link to this

Monday morning quarterbacks

I keep hearing the same “would of, could of, should of” argument about the Hawks picks. Anyone with half a brain knows that you can do that with any team, any year, and any draft. It’s pathetic. Well here is another point of view on the argument, of who we would of could of picked.

2003-could of had Zoran Paninic but drafted Boris Diaw.

2004- could of had Rafael Arajuo, but instead chose Josh Childress.

2005- could have had Martell Webster or Raymond Felton, instead chose Marvin Williams

2006- could have had Brandon Roy, instead took Shelden Williams OK, that was a bad example

So if we hire a new GM, and a new coach, and we win this years lottery and select Greg Oden. And the Hawks make the playoffs next year. Will it be because the lottery finally went our way, or will be it be because we hired a new staff?

You people make me sick.

Go Hawks!

By Daewoo

May 1, 2007 9:34 AM | Link to this

Oh, where to begin. For starters, the Spirit are in way over their heads. I have never run a professional franchise but can see that these guys are disorganized and confused in their communications and decision making. This last episode with the Bernie interview with Yahoo Sports says it all.

The retention of Billy & Mike makes no sense. Gearon says they improved but to what level? They blame it on injuries yet every team has to deal with injuries. If ownership had any sense, they would review the games and see that many of our losses came when no key players were injured. Besides, how is it that we have one of the youngest teams in the NBA yet these guys have blamed injuries in 2 of the last 3 seasons. Billy is a fool and is not batting anywhere close to .500. Woodson is not a motivator and rarely puts the best players on the court. Let’s let Billy & Woody drain the Spirit dry.

Spirit are in trouble. They have the Thrashers but hockey has lost all interest and popularity nationwide. They will never recoup their investment with this franchise. The Hawks are in a great league but the Spirit are too stupid to get out of their own way. They need to spend some money to get the best GM and they need to step aside. A good GM can hire a good coach, bring in players, and yes, deal with the media. The Spirit instead play wet nurse to Billy & Woody so as to preserve this dysfunctional franchise.

Give this thing time and eventually the Spirit will blow themselves up. At that point, someone else will take over and we can start moving forward.

By tp

May 1, 2007 9:36 AM | Link to this

Kudos to you Mr. Gearon for participating in this blog.

Lots of good comments from many fans of the team (extra kudos to those fans who have been regularly attending games).

I think smartguy stated it well: it seems to me the offensive system doesn’t fit with the players. We obviously don’t have the personnel to run and gun like Phoenix, but don’t our players fit the spread style of the Wizards or the triangle like the Lakers?

Heck, I’m just a fan, but it’s clear to me that we won’t win consistently running isolation plays for JJ 80% of the time. Spread the floor, keep everyone moving and use JJ’s (and Marvin’s and J Chills’ and ZaZa’s) passing skills to find the open shooter, cutter or a J Smith drive to the hoop.

JJ is a great player, but he’s not Kobe or LeBron. Close the isolation playbook for good and let’s win some games!

By hawks fan

May 1, 2007 9:42 AM | Link to this

I am frustrated by the lack of wins but I agree that we are very close to having a great team. People, when you burn the house down so you can rebuild there are going to be growing pains but we have a ton of talent and if we can add a good PG and/or C we could make a run not just to the playoffs but through them. However, I do think this offseason is very important. If BK does not add the peices we need before next season it will be his last.

By tp

May 1, 2007 9:45 AM | Link to this

John Chambers (aka Billy Knight in disguise):

The Jazz didn’t pass on Chris Paul - he was taken before their pick - they chose Deron Williams. I think he’s doing pretty well…

The Bucks had PG TJ Ford (pre-injury) and needed a center as badly as the Hawks so they chose Bogut. The Bucks were stupid to trade Ford to Toronto.

No one liked Paul before the draft? Nonathletic? The ONLY knock on him was his size.

By stinkfoot

May 1, 2007 9:46 AM | Link to this

Thank you Mr. Gearon for taking the time to post. I think its good that an owner connect with the fans. Billy Knight needs to go though…none of the fans like him because 1. He makes questionable picks….2. He’s arrogant. We need a solid defensive center.

By Atlanta Fan

May 1, 2007 9:51 AM | Link to this

Mr. Gearon:

As Steak Shapiro of 790 the Zone (“The Official Home of the Atlanta Hawks”) said this morning, sometimes its just best not to say anything at all. There is such a thing as digging oneself into a deeper hole. The comments in the article are unbelievable, but your comments on this blog (assuming it is you) are even worse. I notice that you have not substantively addressed any of the specific issues raised by posters. More and more it is becoming obvious that Billy Knight is simply the product of a culture of denial which permeates the Atlanta Spirit, both on the hardwood and in the courtroom. (Because yes, you and your partners have been thoroughly outmanuvered and out-lawyered by Belkin. He is winning, and deserves to win. He has a credible claim to the Hawks and Thrashers at the buyout price - which makes me unhappy because I am afraid he will then sell the Thrashers to finance the Hawks.)

By Mislead

May 1, 2007 9:52 AM | Link to this

Have the APD narcotics unit plant a fake GM and owners in Phillips Arena for the next season.

By Young Skeet

May 1, 2007 9:54 AM | Link to this

Just can those god-awful uniforms, at least the Hawks could look better while havinf yet another losing season.

By John Chambers

May 1, 2007 9:56 AM | Link to this

Thanks tp, You made my point. His only knock was that he was “too small” So you can agree that he wasn’t a sure thing as many suggest. Due to his lack of size, there was a good chance that he was gonna be a bust ala Randolph Childress wake forest guard who was ten times the college player that Paul was. The Chris Paul over Marvin Williams argument is weak because Marvin is not a bust.

By I'm not Michael Gearon, but I play him on TV

May 1, 2007 9:58 AM | Link to this

Guys, anybody can pretend to be one of the Hawks’ owners on this blog, and offer to answer questions from the fans. If you were a wealthy pro sports owner in the public eye, would you really give off-the-cuff answers on a newspaper website?

I think the word I’m looking for here is “gullible.”

By Atlanta Hawks #1 Fan

May 1, 2007 9:59 AM | Link to this

Thanks Mr. Gearon, Jr. for taking the time at (4 a.m. in the morning) to respond to questions. I was a season ticket holder in 2005-2006 and I did not renew in 2006-2007 because I didn’t have confidence in the direction of the team. It was clearly obvious that the team needed a floor general at point guard and BK passed on Chris Paul, Deron Williams, and Brandon Roy. Then he brings in Speedy and AJ. When are we going to get the draft situation solved and bring in a young point guard who can provide us with leadership?

Second, Coach Woodson needs to adapt his coaching style to the players that we have on the roster. We have a team that’s capable of running on a nightly basis like Golden State, Phoenix, and Denver. Open up the offense and RUN. Our guys are the youngest players in the league.

Third, I do believe that BK is doing a better job than Pete Babcock. Babcock was the worst GM in the league. He had no clue about drafting talent, releasing talent (Dominque Wilkins for Danny Manning), and signing Jon 2pt./ 2 rebounds Koncak to a long term contract. With that said, Please give me a good reason to purchase season tickets this year?

Rich Guys Trophy Wife http://www.richguystrophywife.com

By John Chambers

May 1, 2007 9:59 AM | Link to this

What the heck does Steak know about basketball anyway. Those guys on Mayhem need to stick to what they do best, which is being full-time jerks and leave sports decisions to the guys that have actually earned it.

By steve, atl

May 1, 2007 10:00 AM | Link to this

I feel fortunate to have saved the 10K on the seats that I have held for several years. This blog cleared up why we are really bad and this new insight has helped me to make a better decision. With Knight and Woodson back the product will not improve and that is easy for anyone with some foresight. For Gearon, here are some lowlights of the best basketball man you have ever met…by the way, may I suggest that you need to broaden your circle:

Deng over Childress (terrible mistake) Marvin over Deron Williams (terrible decision) Shelden over Roy/Foye (awful) The Shelden Promise The Speedy fiasco (injury plagued career backup) The Lo Wright disaster The AJ trade, now we have 3 backup PG’s

We now have TWO high lottery picks coming off the bench for a terrible team. You would think that teams as bad as the Hawks could draft starters with high lottery picks. Nope.

This best basketball man you have ever met is a problem. His track record has a lot more bad than good. Apparently, only the fans can see it.

By the way, before you go public with your decision on Woodson why don’t you get your ducks in a row? One day your President (another joke) announces he is coming back…the next day its not done yet because out of respect for your partners you need to meet first.

This organization is the pits. At least I’m not supporting it anymore with money. This is just a bad joke in a town that could be so great. Please sell this team to more competant people. Please.

By Michael

May 1, 2007 10:02 AM | Link to this

I appreciate you Mr. Gearon for the article and participating in the discussion. Not many, if any owners in any sport would take the time to do this. Most people here are too caught up playing their role of television GM of the Hawks.

As a current, and proud season ticket holder of nearly 20 years, I have seen the good times and the very bad times. There is not one time where I’ve said I’m going to give up on the team. 3 seasons ago (including the past season) the team won 13 games. 2 seasons ago we won 26 games. This past season we won 30 games. This past season was also one of the more entertaining seasons I’ve witnessed in quite some time and the people who ACTUALLY COME to the games will tell you the same thing. I truly believe better things are coming.

I will call out Steve, the guy who said he didn’t renew his season tickets. You quit man and that is pretty pathetic.

By jp

May 1, 2007 10:10 AM | Link to this

this guy is a retard. I’m not a season ticket holder but I do attend Hawks games. Well forget it now, i’m not paying these guys my money. No way in hel. How can you support billy knight and mike woodson. I can may be understand Mike woodson if I tried really hard. BEcause he’s never had a point guard or a center. But who’s fault is that, that’s right billy knight. HOw can you support this guy. I’m not buying anything Hawks or Thrashers related from now on. But i’ll probably still blog like hell about them.

By pmaybe

May 1, 2007 10:20 AM | Link to this

Mr. Gearon

I was going to give my two cents also, but everyone has said exactly how I feel. I do want to thank you and commend you for staying up all night and reading what we fans have to say. While it’s unacceptable to have a GM who doesn’t care about the opinion of the fans, as we have, it softens the sting to know that an owner will listen. I hope you will understand that we were waiting for a winner here long before you guys purchased the team so your wait and our wait is and will always be unbalanced. Thanks again.

By steve, atl

May 1, 2007 10:21 AM | Link to this

I quit products that don’t work. I will spend my money where I feel I get a bang for my buck. I don’t like the direction of the team and apparently there are many like me.

I’ll make you a deal. You spend your cash how you want, and I will spend mine like I see fit.

Only moron buys a product out of blind loyalty. Pull your head out, and buy a mutual fund. Trust me, it will be the best decision you ever make.

By the way, Gearon hasn’t addressed ONE ISSUE on here. That’s because he can’t defend his GM.

He doesn’t have the fortitude to tackle any real issues. It’s all mindless blather like…Woody is a winner…BK is the best basketball man…we are all frustrated too…we will win soon…blah, blah, blah. There is a not a substantive comment in anything he has stated. NOT ONE. I wouldn’t come back here either because this whole deal should be embarrassing to him.

By Tony

May 1, 2007 10:27 AM | Link to this

If Billy Knight doesn’t work out give me a call. I can get this team in the playoff immediately. I have what it takes to bring the right players to Atlanta who will compete to bring a championship to this wonderful city. Make the call.

By Gearon, Jr. vs. Dumars

May 1, 2007 10:30 AM | Link to this

to paraphrase Gearon,“A lot of people would pick [Detroit’s Joe] Dumars as a great GM. In a draft with Carmelo Anthony and Chris Bosh and Dwyane Wade, he took Darko Milicic. That’s a pretty dumb move looking back.” - here’s a newsflash for you Mr. Gearon: 1)Dumars has a ring as a GM and his team is now in the playoffs 2) you can’t carry his clipboard (or his jockstrap for that matter) 3) call him dumb to his face 4) is it any mystery now why the hawks (and the thrashers for that matter) are wallowing in mediocrity

By John Holmes

May 1, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this

Gearon is an idiot.

By Cary

May 1, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this

Doug Edwards - #15 pick, 1993 Ed Gray - #22 pick, 1997 Cal Bowdler - #17 pick, 1999

Josh Childress - #6 pick, 2004 Marvin Williams - #2 pick, 2005 Shelden Williams - #5 pick, 2006

Nice comparison.

By mountain_jim

May 1, 2007 10:44 AM | Link to this

I might have missed it above, but I want to comment about the injuries. Woody ran JJ into the ground with the minutes he played him. He ran Childress into the ground as well. I wonder if some of the injuries and time missed might have been lessoned dramatically if the coach had not overplayed some of these guys and rushed them back in before they were ready from previous injuries. Woody could have been giving more time to some of our young guys earlier in the season rather than burning out our top 5 with overuse.

By KB

May 1, 2007 10:52 AM | Link to this

I am taken aback for this owner. He truly doesn’t want to admit that his GM has done got the job done period. The coach can get a pass with this aurgument.

Woodson have not given enough resources to make a good evaluation. Unfortunately, we may not get to see it this theory next year. Woodson has been hindered with a GM with a questionable eye for talent. He only has five players of any sort and a couple of draft picks that should have been drafted by this team.

Mr. Geason’s optimism is referring, but Mr. Geason and the rest of the owners need to get their act together and come to their senses about this basketball team. I only hope that Mr. Belkin wins the team’s ownership rights and get competant basketball people in here. I know that most of Atlanta’s fans are fickle as can be, but the small minority of them such as myself knows what a good team looks like. And believe me, this isn’t it, not by a longshot.

By steve, atl

May 1, 2007 10:52 AM | Link to this

Note to Gearon:

1. No comparison on drafting Gray and Bowdler late in the first versus lottery picks 2,5,6.

2. It’s hard to get a bust (Shelden is close) picking that high. You give the GM credit for that?

3. He has NEVER taken the best lottery pick. EVER. He has passed on TWO rookies of the year and an ALL Star next year in Deng.

You can defend this???

By KP

May 1, 2007 11:03 AM | Link to this

I’m not sure if this is really Gearon or not but to whoever said “If you were a wealthy pro sports owner in the public eye, would you really give off-the-cuff answers on a newspaper website?”. You never know. Gearon has been known to frequent other hawks blogs like realgm. He came on and gave us a discount code to use for a Hawk game (don’t remember which one) once.

By Paul

May 1, 2007 11:04 AM | Link to this

The problem I have with the Hawks is that Billy Knight continues to draft an athletic team made to run and press. And yet we have a coach who wants to slow things down and play half court ball. The perception to an outsider is that Hawks leadership is not all on the same page.

I certainly understand that Mr. Gearon has to defend his General Manager and Coach. A good leader does not hang his people out to dry. Having said that, the Hawks record speaks for itself and the fans - the people who pay to watch this - are demanding more than what your front office is providing. The front office and team both seem dysfunctional.

By Vick the dog killer

May 1, 2007 11:05 AM | Link to this

The Hawks suck Donkeeeey Dixxxxxxx, as Numba one fan said above. That’s about all that needs saying.

Well, other than I’d like to kill a few more dogs, of course.

By Ima Hater

May 1, 2007 11:18 AM | Link to this

Mmmmmmmmmmmmmmm………….Sweet Kool-Aid………mmmmmmm…..

D-lish!

The Hawks don’t need fresh talent. They just need a fresh, new, realistic marketing campaign.

THE ATLANTA HAWKS: The ‘Michael Vick’ of the NBA

THE ATLANTA HAWKS: One Less Reason to Ever Go Downtown

THE ATLANTA HAWKS: Our Fans Tear Up the Interior at Philips Arena in Time for Concert and Hockey Fans to Arrive

THE ATLANTA HAWKS: If You Say You Don’t Want to Pay Money to Watch of a Bunch of Tattoo-Covered Freaks and Current/Future Felons Outnumber Character Roundball Players with Class Who Actually Respect the Game, We Will Call Your Comments “Insensitive.”

THE ATLANTA HAWKS: Come See Our Stars Before Their Court-Ordered Sentences Begin.

THE ATLANTA HAWKS: A HAWKS Game is the PERFECT Place to Tell Your Wife You Want a Divorce!

THE ATLANTA HAWKS: Why Spend Your Entertainment Dollar on Something More Worthwhile?

THE ATLANTA HAWKS: ELEVATE THE HATE in ‘07-‘08 !

THE ATLANTA HAWKS: Make it Past the Gauntlet of Panhandlers Outside and Get In for Half-Price!

THE ATLANTA HAWKS: How Did Owners This Dumb Ever Get to Be Millionaires?

THE ATLANTA HAWKS: We Don’t Advise Bringing Your Children.

By Micheal Gearon = Moron

May 1, 2007 11:27 AM | Link to this

Wow this is some crap. Gearon just comes on an interview to defend the The WORSE GM in the LEAGUE yes I said it. I strongly believe Billy Knight is even worse than Isiah. Atleast Isiah makes move indicating he wants to win. HE TRY’S Everyone was singing his praises when he got a real coach to coach the team in Larry Brown. He DID NOT just hire his little buddy like Billy did when he hired Mike Woodson (who I’ll get to in a little bit). Isiah actually got a good Center in Eddy Curry and drafted POINT GUARDS Not SF after SF after SF . Billy is crap and anyone who defends him Is on the same boat as him. We have 4 barely average point guards eating up cap space and I swear If Billy uses that as an excuse to not draft a REAL POINT GUARD I’m officially DONE WITH THE HAWKS AND WILL JUST KEEP TABS ON MY BOY SMOOVE.

Any GM with picks #2 #6 #5 and tons of cap-space should be able to build a contender. He has used all of those building tools and still has us fans complaining. And YOU THINK THAT’S THE “RIGHT DIRECTION”. The only way fans will have hope is if Billy and his little friend Woody ARE OUT THE DOOR. But obviously you piece of crap owners don’t have the B@lls to make a move. *If BK AINT OUT BY THE DRAFT THEN I’M OUT BY THE DRAFT AND IM TAKING MY SEASON TICKETS WITH ME!

By Bwilson

May 1, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this

What about the Bulls. THey were worse than we were and the just beat the Champs?

By roan st

May 1, 2007 11:42 AM | Link to this

Gearon and company are flat broke and bleeding more by the day. The real reason he is 100% behind woodson and knight is because he can’t afford to fire them and hire somebody else. Regardless of which faction takes over this team they will need an infusion of capital from somewhere.

By R. Nixon

May 1, 2007 11:47 AM | Link to this

Let me make one thing PERFECTLY clear:

If the lottery balls bounce their way, and the Hawks are fortunate enough to get a couple of premium picks in the upcoming draft, I don’t want to see ANYBODY getting on here and saying, “See, I told you BK knew what he was doing when he made those trades!”

When the future of a professional sports franchise hinges on NOTHING BUT LUCK, heads need to roll.

By J

May 1, 2007 11:55 AM | Link to this

Can’t You see by how many people here hate what Billy has done. JUST FIRE THE GUY THAT’S IT is it really that hard? You and Billy most have some kind of relationship beyond basketball (if you know what I mean) for it to be so hard to just give him the pink slip. I’m actually going to be rooting for Velkin to win the legal battle so maybe he’ll actually fix this team because ATL SPIRIT IS TRASH

By J

May 1, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this

Oh yea if BK even thinks of drafting a bust like Joakim Noah. He should be hunted down by carnibals.

By Jay

May 1, 2007 12:05 PM | Link to this

TO GEARON

If you are here to answer, then answer this…

1. Why is passing on Deng and new AI (future allstars) for Chills (a good backup but not starter quality) a good move?

2. Why was passing on Chris Paul (a future all-star) for Marvin (afraid to drive, will be lucky to average 16 ppg) a good move?

3. Why was passing on Roy and Foye for Shelden a good move?

4. Why did we try to fix our lack of size by drafting someone that ISNT 6’9, has no ups, and got outplayed all season by a 2nd round pick (shelden again).

5. Why do we have THREE backup point guards but no starter-caliber point guards?

6. Why was renting AJ for 1 1/2 years for a high 2nd round pick in a loaded draft a good move?

7. Why was Lorenzen Wright a good move?

8. Why is Billy Knight nationally ridiculed for being one of the worst GMs? If this is not true, then how are people reaching this conclusion?

9. Why do we keep drafting players that are 6’9?

10. Why wont we get a STARTER-caliber point guard, considering our almost league-worst numbers in ppg and assists as a team?

By Lowlight Factory

May 1, 2007 12:06 PM | Link to this

If the Spirit didn’t pamper their GM, they would have no reason to speak to the media. Posters thanking Gearon for his comments here are missing the point. BK is paid to keep the media informed yet he is a crybaby and refuses to do it. Thus, Gearon and his band of idiots take on the role and botch it almost as bad as BK would have.

This is one sad group of owners, managers, and coaches. The Hawks futility has reached perpetuity now. No end in sight.

To the poster who hammered the guy for dropping his season tickets- give me a break! Is there some sort of award for keeping your season tickets? Will the Spirit share their profits with you if they ever make any? Absolutely not. Just because you choose to drop ALOT of money on an INFERIOR product does not mean anyone else should do the same. Frankly, one is better off picking the games he wants to attend and scalping tickets for half-price outside Phillips. If you buy season tickets, good luck trying to sell those you don’t want to use.

By Fire BK

May 1, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

* FOR ALL WHO REAL WANT TO GET RID OF BK SIGN THIS ONLINE PETITION ABOUT FIRING BILLY KNIGHT TAKE ACTION*

text to be linked

[Fire BK NOW](http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/3099949890

By MsDee

May 1, 2007 12:11 PM | Link to this

Woodson needs to be replaced..I dont care by who, he just needs to go..no matter who we get in the draft, Woodson will not play or coach them right..Many on here say you would keep Woodson over BK. I’m not sure I would agree with that..yes, BK didnt draft a PG or C for Woodson, but with the players that Woodson have, he sucks at it..if Woodson have Chris Paul, Deug, Roy Williams, etc. guess what, we still wouldn’t be in the playoffs cause Woodson would not have let those players shine..trust me. Example, look what he did to salim his 1st year when he scored 20+ pts in the 4th when we were down by 30 or so pts starting the 4th..Salim didnt get any reward the next game cause he sat the bench. What kind of motivation is that for a rookie at that time?????? Remember when Woodson “forgot” to put JSmoove back in the game when he was playing great?? How do u forget your players who are making a difference in the game??????Look what Woodson did to Solomon this season when he hustled like it was his last game to play..which it felt like since he very sheldon got back in the game. I mean we have great players on the team who has what it takes to shine but Woody woodpecker just wont let them. I bet Chris Paul and others mensioned are too happy that BK didnt get them cause they would not be near as getting all the attention they get now! I hope u read this Mr.G!!

By Lowlight Factory

May 1, 2007 12:12 PM | Link to this

Don’t know if its been reported here but there is a rumor that the court case will be settled soon. If the Spirit win, they have a deep pocketed individual that will buy 40% of their interest in the Hawks and Thrashers. This would mean more of the same as the same idiots will remain in charge. If Belkin wins, he will sell the Thrashers immediately and focus on building the Hawks. BK would be gone and who knows with Woodson. I don’t know Belkin but at least this option presents some hope.

By MJ

May 1, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this

What a joke

Please keep trying to remind us how great this organization is…do you think we are that stupid.

I have not been to a game since the Dominique, Willis, Whitman, Rivers, Car, Levingston, Rollins, etc. days. And I will never attend a game in Atlanta. I am given great seats every year and they go in the trash, what does that tell you about the fan base??

Poor management + poor ownership = poor team.

I guess all 800 fans in attendance are buying in to the fact that the team is playoff bound.

You are not perceived as a joke (Atlanta Spirit, LLC)…you are a joke!

By gb

May 1, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this

how are the gearons related to the smiths? rankin smith i mean

By LL Cool Scott

May 1, 2007 1:26 PM | Link to this

I really hope that this has opened your eyes to Billy Knight’s unpopularity and shortcomings. Something close to 90 responses about Billy Knight, and about 4 of them have been positive. I personally don’t care about his personality and media snubs -it’s his poor job performance that bugs me.

By justin

May 1, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this

THIS GUY HAS NO CLUE.

By CRobinson

May 1, 2007 1:32 PM | Link to this

I respect your position and agree for the most part Mr. Gearon. My only concern is if the plan is to win next year will you force BK to make some basketball moves if the lottery doesn’t work out for us? We need more “healthy” NBA bodies to compete nightly. Lue, Claxton, Wright etc. aren’t going to cut it. If we have to go luxury you guys need to do it.

By smartguy

May 1, 2007 1:42 PM | Link to this

This is great stuff. Great points on Woody overplaying guys. I forgot about that.

I also like the team slogan “ELEVATE THE HATE 2007-08.” If Woody is back as coach, I am up for protests of all kinds; t-shirts, signs, chants at games, etc. I have so much animosity toward the Hawks’ leadership for failing to take advantage of opportunities at hand. Remember how bad it has gotten for the Detroit Lions? They had security personnel chasing around fans at games because they had shirts on calling for Matt Millen to be fired. It may be worth going to a game or two, just to make a scene to show our displeasure with the way things are being run.

I quit on this team as well. I split season tix with a friend of mine for five seasons, but I stopped going half way through this last season because it was causing me more pain than joy. I bit the bullet on some of this years games, but I will not be doing the same next year. I’m not going to spend money to be unhappy.

By steve

May 1, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this

From a FORMER season ticket holder: Billy knight is terrible. The owners get what they accept.

By Ima Hater 2

May 1, 2007 1:58 PM | Link to this

THE ATLANTA HAWKS: Where EVERY Night is ‘Urban Night’

THE ATLANTA HAWKS: Complimentary ‘Meet & Greet’ with Authentic Downtown Atlanta Derelicts After Every Home Game

THE ATLANTA HAWKS: The Cure for Getting Rid of Your Basketball Addiction

THE ATLANTA HAWKS: We’ll Make You Appreciate the Braves Even More

THE ATLANTA HAWKS: We Wasted Our Money on this Franchise, So You All Should, Too!

THE ATLANTA HAWKS: Billy Knight Must Have Naked Pictures of SOMEBODY in the Ownership Group

THE ATLANTA HAWKS: Al & Jesse Threaten to Boycott Us If We Fire Billy, Even if We Replace Him with Magic Johnson. Therefore, HE STAYS.

THE ATLANTA HAWKS: Unlike Mike Vick, Our Players Are Smart Enough to Not Get Caught

THE ATLANTA HAWKS: Hate Your Boss? Take Him or Her to a HAWKS Game!

THE ATLANTA HAWKS: Where the Profanity is Included at No Extra Charge

THE ATLANTA HAWKS: We Drove Down from the Suburbs for THIS?!?!?

THE ATLANTA HAWKS: Not Quite as Bad as a Venereal Disease

THE ATLANTA HAWKS: If We Play the Gangster Rap Music Loud Enough, You Won’t Even Notice How Bad the Team Is

THE ATLANTA HAWKS: James Naismith Would Be Ashamed

THE ATLANTA HAWKS: If Production Lines at ‘The Highlight Factory’ Ever Broke Down, You Probably Wouldn’t Even Notice.

THE ATLANTA HAWKS: If Billy Runs this Franchise Completely Into the Ground, Maybe ‘Bully Belkin’ Won’t Want It Anymore.

THE ATLANTA HAWKS: You’d Think We Would Be Smart Enough to Ask Ted Turner for Advice

THE ATLANTA HAWKS: We Miss You, Stan Kasten!

THE ATLANTA HAWKS: The Friendly PHILIPS ARENA Staff Will Make Every Paying Fan Feel Just Like an NBA Player - - Isiah Rider !

THE ATLANTA HAWKS: What a Shame!

THE ATLANTA HAWKS: The Governor Should Probably Intervene.

By AH

May 1, 2007 2:04 PM | Link to this

Remember Mark Bradley defended Pete Babcock’s every move for his entire tenure here. I wonder if this aritcle was not another defense of Pete Babcock by Bradley. When you begin by saying what a wonderful person someone is and then trash them, it has the feel of a hatchet job. I would be shocked if Bradley has not taken Gearon’s words and molded them for his own agenda.

By SSI fan

May 1, 2007 2:04 PM | Link to this

I hope Belkin wins. It couldn’t be any worse. I would rather the Hawks have no draft picks this year than have BK make the picks.

By Tyger

May 1, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this

Finally, a worthy topic, but this blog is such a cess pool of cybertrash, you cant enjoy it.

BK has done a great job, especially when compared to Babcock and lets not forget Snake Kasten. But, Oh, I almost forgot, Bradley rubber-stamped every move of the former regime, but hated Lenny Wilkens, the last playoff coach in Atlanta. Hmmmmmmm….

By AH

May 1, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this

Hawks drafts under Bradley’s favorite GM.

2002 — None 2001 — None - traded for Shareef 2000 — DerMarr Johnson, Cincinnati 1999 — Jason Terry, Arizona Cal Bowdler, Old Dominion Dion Glover, Georgia Tech Jumaine Jones, Georgia 1998 — Roshown McLeod, Duke 1997 — Ed Gray, California 1996 — Priest Lauderdale, Peristeri Nikas (Greece) 1995 — Alan Henderson, Indiana 1994 — None 1993 — Douglas Edwards, Florida State 1992 — Adam Keefe, Stanford 1991 — Stacey Augmon, Nevada-Las Vegas Anthony Avent, Seton Hall

By Rick Pitino

May 1, 2007 2:44 PM | Link to this

Hey, Larry Bird isn’t walking through that door. Kevin McHale isn’t walking through that door. Robert Parrish isn’t walking through that door.

By steve, atl

May 1, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this

Tyger, it isn’t right for relatives to post on here. It is also irrelevant what Babcock did. Very few think Babcock was any good but BK is still terrible. Two very bad GM’s back to back.

Bring on Belkin.

By cowa

May 1, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

To me, the problem isn’t with Billy for what he’s done, it’s for what he hasn’t done. This past season, at the trade deadline, we had opportunities (from what rumors were being spread) to go after some impact players. Instead, we traded our 2nd round pick for AJ. This saved Dallas $6M, and gives them a good pick in the draft.

In 05-06, we needed a big man all season long to help Zaza out, and Billy never got any help. This wasn’t about getting a few more wins, this was about not having to overuse your current players.

Last year in the draft, as Marcus Williams and Rajon Rondo slid further down the draft board, Billy didn’t pull the trigger on trying to pick up one of those picks (which Phoenix was clearly willing to move).

I heard Bernie Mullen say that Billy has to address PG and Center this offseason. In addition, he will have to address contract extensions for Smith and Childress. There will need to be a lot of activity this summer, but unless the legal battle is settled, I don’t know how any of this can happen. And with Billy, making a lot of moves isn’t exactly his style.

By Ricardo

May 1, 2007 2:53 PM | Link to this

Lowlight -

Where did you see that? Interesting…..

By Arthur Blank

May 1, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this

Here I see a great opportunity to speak to the real fans of my team. Even though this article isn’t about the Falcons, I have seen some people mentioning Michael Vick. At least you are talking about us!

Please buy more season tickets. We only raised the price for the 5th straight year. It is indeed a bargain compared to the Hawks.

Hmmm….Should I purchase the Hawks? What do you think?

Oh yeah, in case you didn’t realize this, I am not Arthur Blank but “Matthew At The SLC” is really Matthew Cafaro, idiot extraordinaire.

By Michael

May 1, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this

Steve—As much as you love to brag about being a “former season ticket holder”, I want to thank you for not renewing. The staff, team, and arena do not need individuals like you around no matter how much you spend.

The fact is, nothing is guranteed in sports. So basically everyone is blinded when they spend their money on the product. Once again, thank you for not renewing, nobody will miss you.

By Dan

May 1, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this

Ima Hater 2

If you are going to post a list, like you did in your last post, at least make it funny. Almost everything you said either made no sense or just was weak humor. You need new material.

Also, can you give me back the minute of my life I wasted trying to make sense of that crap?

By Tired of Losing

May 1, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

Of course OTHER GM’s speak Highly of Billy Knight…They know that everytime their team plays us, it’s going to be a “W” as long as Billy “I Love Forwards” is behind the wheel…what a joke. Thank God for Arthur Blank and the Falcons…..

By Jamaal

May 1, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this

If the mediocrity of watching the Hawks in person isn’t bad enough, having to listen to that cross-eyed IDIOT Ryan Cameron only makes the experience more painful and forgettable. Also, lose that traffic girl roving in the stands…TOTALLY Annoying!

By sisu

May 1, 2007 4:39 PM | Link to this

This is exactly the problem, you have an owner of the Thrashers/Hawks willing to spend time talking about the Hawks who have brought the losing curse to the Bulb…

I am so sick and tired of having the ownership force feed the hockey fans basketball when we could care less about the Hawks…

Now let’s see what will happen next season, hopefully someone will listen to the paying fans of the Thrashers and quit telling us about a sport we could care less about!

By Ima Hater 2

May 1, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this

Dan

You make Billy Knight look like a genius by comparison. However, most people would be ashamed to admit to such stupidity. I respect and applaud your tremendous courage.

I sincerely hope you apply adequate CHAP*STICK when you smooch Mr. Gearon’s rear, assuming that you are NOT him and posting under another name.

Now, please get back to work at the drive-thru. There are hungry people needing their french fries.

May I have some extra ketchup, please?

By Matthew

May 1, 2007 5:00 PM | Link to this

Okay Mr. Blank, you called me out. That doesn’t though discredit my phenominal knowledge of basketball. Amongst the many sports I excelled in, I was a basketball phenom while in middle school. I could have made the NBA if it wasn’t for my hurt knees. I am 100% positive though with me as owner and my life partner Twan as GM, I could lead the Hawks to multiple world championships unlike this inept ownership.

By Michael Gearon Jr

May 1, 2007 5:08 PM | Link to this

See how easy it is to type a name in and post as someone? I think everyone is responding to a jokester. But if not, and those posts by the other Michael Gearon Jr are real, heaven help this team. I’m glad I’m a Jazz fan, and even more so that Deron Williams is on that team instead of this one.

By Patman

May 1, 2007 5:34 PM | Link to this

Please tell me that Michael Gearon was joking? As disgusted as I was by Steve Belkin’s megolamania during the Joe Johnson fiasco, I’m now wishing he’d win this case so that we can get rid of this sorry excuse of a GM and tell these clueless owners to take a walk! Yes Billy Knight is a better GM than Pete Babcock but that’s like acknowledging that the Chevette was a better car than the Vega! It doesn’t mean anything! I rarely agree with Mark “Give up three players for Rex Chapman” on anything but it’s hard to disagree on this one!

By Twan

May 1, 2007 6:04 PM | Link to this

Matty.

I did NOT want to bring our “relationship” up here! I thought we agreed that we were in a time out, yet you keep calling me your life partner?

On a message board? Is that what you have to do to get my attention?

Well…..you got it. I miss you.

I’ll be home tonight.

You’ve been a bad boy. You definately have a spanking coming….TEE HEE.

By Lowlight Factory

May 1, 2007 7:15 PM | Link to this

Ricardo: I heard it on John Kincade’s ESPN Sunday morning radio show. He got it from someone close to the situation in NYC.

By Matthew

May 1, 2007 7:35 PM | Link to this

Twan,

Oh goody goody gumdrops! Can I wear my pink chiffon? I’ve been a very “naughty” boy and I need a spanking. Please though be careful with my knees, you know how tender they are.

By MJ3

May 1, 2007 8:57 PM | Link to this

You all are absolutely shameful. Thank god you’re also all too stupid to realize that wasn’t really Gearon. If you don’t think he has better things to do than post on a Hawks blog where everyone blindly hates on everything he and his organization does, then I don’t even feel sorry for you.

In every way, your mamas would all be ashamed of you today.

By Tyger

May 1, 2007 9:14 PM | Link to this

Hawks brass playing injury card

Yes, injuries occurred and they hurt, but not to the degree their claiming. All teams have injuries, thats why you have depth and who has more wings than the Hawks???

When half your team are forwards, two top 5 picks, losing a forward shouldnt kill your season. Theyve acquired several guards too, so losing a guard shouldnt have been devastating either.

Ivey, Salim and Solomon all showed well when finally given a opportunity.

And lets not forget the dirty-dirty politics that really destroyed this team - not injuries.

Cedric Bozeman, 6’7, PG, fr. Final Four UCLA, earned a starting job thru hard work all summer. And Hawks played well too, beating LBJ at home, among others. Boze was sold out and went on to have a 20 assist game in Dleague.

Yet, they forced $7M Speedy on the court, despite not having even practiced, and ruined what couldve been a great season. Not injuries - lies and deceit!

So, while I agree with the decision to keep Woody and BK, I think there was enough “healthy” talent to win more than 30 games.

Poor player development, substitution patterns and free agent acquisitions contributed more to our losses than games lost to injury.

Conversely, ownership believes the opposite, that “player development” is the strength of this group. Wrong.

It is and always has been player acquisition for BK, afterall, he is the second best talent man in the business.

By Matthew

May 1, 2007 9:36 PM | Link to this

I have a cat named Buddy. He’s a good boy. Never thought I’d ever have a cat, but hey, I never thought I’d get a couple of knee injuries, be out of the Corps, and get fat; so you know… anything can happen. Just hold onto that dream! I did aqnd Twan has come back!

By steve, atl

May 1, 2007 9:58 PM | Link to this

Michael-You think it’s bragging to be a former season ticket holder to the Hawks? Actually, I rarely tell anybody that I had tickets because it’s pretty embarrassing, I could not even get friends to go to the games when I couldn’t go. It was like, go to the Hawks game? BWAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHH!

You are wrong about nothing guaranteed. Dead wrong. It is a 100% guarantee that the Hawks will suck donkey balls next year and every year that the Atlanta Spirit own this train wreck.

Oh, and I wouldn’t say that the franchise doesn’t want me back. FYI, judging by the barrage of emails I would say they want me back real bad.

By Scooter32

May 1, 2007 11:50 PM | Link to this

Mr. DAN - - - - At least the other posters on here were actually able to stay on the topic of the Hawks you self righteous DUMBA$$.

By SWATS

May 2, 2007 1:03 AM | Link to this

OK….I got some clarification from a VERY reliable at the AJC and with the Hawks organization Media Dept that the blog posting on here are NOT from Michael Gearon Jr. personally, but a fan who has posted his name and is posting this nonsense.

Great to have Hawk talk this serious, but sorry, the blogger “Michael Gearon Jr” is a fake.

By Michael Gearon Jr

May 2, 2007 1:18 AM | Link to this

Hey, Hawks fans…

Ed Gray isn’t walking through that door. Priest Lauderdale isn’t walking through that door. Doug Edwards isn’t walking through that door. Dallas Comegys isn’t walking through that door. Roshawn McLeod isn’t walking through that door. Adam Keefe isn’t walking through that door. Jon Koncak isn’t walking through that door. Roy Marble isn’t walking through that door. Rumeal Robinson isn’t walking through that door. Cal Bowdler isn’t walking through that door. DerMarr Johnson isn’t walking through that door.

By Braves Fan 79

May 2, 2007 3:30 AM | Link to this

Im glad the hawks were the one atlanta team i stopped being hardcore about after that traitor petebabsuckacock traded Nique!! Glad im a houston rockets fan!! go rockets! and go goldenstate!
at least we got the Braves and Falcons!