Hawks sign Johnson to rookie-scale deal, Cooper to two-way
Ahead of Summer League, the Hawks signed Jalen Johnson to a rookie-scale deal and Sharife Cooper to a two-way contract, according to a person familiar with the situation.
The team announced the signings Thursday afternoon, but didn’t disclose the terms of either deal.
Both players are slated to participate in the NBA Summer League, which begins Sunday in Las Vegas. The Hawks selected Johnson in the first round, with the No. 20 pick, in this year’s draft, and Cooper in the second round.
In 13 games at Duke, Johnson (6-foot-9, 7-foot wingspan) averaged 11.2 points, 6.1 rebounds and 2.2 assists in 21.4 minutes, shooting 52.3% from the field and 44.4% from 3-point range. He has great size and potential.
Cooper (6-1, 180 pounds) played at McEachern High and Auburn. In 12 games with the Tigers, he averaged 20.2 points and 8.1 assists in 33.1 minutes per game, shooting 39.1% from the field and 22.8% from 3-point range. The Hawks can have up to two two-way players, who will spend some time with the College Park Skyhawks (the Hawks’ G League affiliate) but can be on the Hawks’ active list for up to 50 games this season.
About the Author
Sarah K. Spencer, a Georgia native and UGA alum, spearheads sports video at the AJC. She also serves as a general assignment writer and previously covered the Hawks from 2019-22.
