As the Hawks introduced their new head coach, general manager Danny Ferry took time to thank the organization’s outgoing coach Wednesday.
Ferry recognized Larry Drew for his contributions to the organization.
“I would also like to acknowledge my appreciation and respect for the job that Larry Drew did here the last three years here,” Ferry said. “I enjoyed working with him. We talked again (Tuesday) about things. I wish him great luck and great success in the future.”
Drew arrived in Milwaukee on Wednesday for a second interview with the Bucks, who are searching for a head coach. He is one of two finalists for the job. The other reportedly is Kelvin Sampson.
Drew will not have his contract renewed when it expires June 30. He was given permission to speak to other NBA teams about their vacancies while Ferry conducted a head coach search of his own.
Coaching Horford: Mike Budenholzer said he is eager to work with Al Horford once he is able to take over the Hawks' reins.
“Al Horford is someone who I am excited about coaching,” the new Hawks coach said. “Working through how we are going to improve him, in all way, shapes and form, is something I look forward to discussing with him. … I can’t wait to start that relationship with Al and all of our players. Really, if I’m going to be good those relationships are critical to my success. It starts with Al, but it goes through the 15th guy, whoever that may be.”
Staff to be determined: Less than 24 hours after his announcement as new head coach was too early for Budenholzer to get specific about what his staff would look like. However, he did say he has some names in mind.
“At the appropriate time, there are obviously names and people that I have been thinking about,” Budenholzer said. “That will happen in due time. I look forward to putting together a great staff, a staff that can help the players, help me and be a part of this collaborative effort.”
Summer league update: The Hawks will compete in the Las Vegas Summer League on July 12-22 as one of 22 teams, 21 from the NBA and one D-League select team. The other NBA teams competing are the Bobcats, Bulls, Cavaliers, Mavericks, Nuggets, Warriors, Clippers, Lakers, Grizzlies, Heat, Bucks, Timberwolves, Pelicans, Knicks, Suns, Trail Blazers, Kings, Spurs, Raptors and Wizards.
NBA TV will televise games, including the championship contest in the new format. Games also will be available on digital platforms.
The Hawks will be coached by a to-be-determined staff member. John Jenkins, Mike Scott and Shelvin Mack will play for the Hawks. The team also has four selections in the June draft.
The Hawks will play a five-game schedule before the start of a league tournament. They will play the Wizards on July 13, the Spurs on July 15, the Celtics on July 16, the Mavericks on July 18 and the Trail Blazers on July 19.
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