Hawks coach Lloyd Pierce is flying home to Atlanta on Tuesday for the birth of his second child, which is expected in the next few days, the AJC confirmed.

In his absence, assistant coach Nate McMillan, a previous head coach of the Pacers who joined the Hawks’ staff in the offseason, will take over head coaching duties. The Hawks are in the middle of a road trip, and Pierce likely will miss Wednesday’s and Friday’s games in Boston.

It’s expected that Pierce will be back for Sunday’s home game against Denver.

Marc J. Spears of ESPN’s The Undefeated first reported the news.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Atlanta Hawks forward Jalen Johnson (1) hangs on the basket after dunking the ball during the second half in the home opener at State Farm Arena, Wednesday, October 22, 2025, in Atlanta. Toronto Raptors won 138-118 over Atlanta Hawks. (Hyosub Shin/AJC)

Credit: HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

Featured

(Photo Illustration: Philip Robibero | Sources: Hyosub Shin for AJC, Unsplash)

Credit: Philip Robibero / AJC