Atlanta Hawks: Michael Gearon Jr. Q-and-A
Hawks co-owner Michael Gearon Jr. sat down Friday for a long interview with myself and fellow AJC scribe Tim Tucker. Here are some excerpts from the wide-ranging discussion, edited for clarity and flow. It includes my interrogatives and/or explanations of what Gearon was talking about:
Gearon started out by explaining his reasoning on bringing back most of the same players for what he says is a “make or break” year for the Hawks.
I look at us, and you measure a team on its results: How are we doing vs. the league? There are three teams the last three years that have advanced past the first round. The Lakers—who everybody loves the Lakers—the Celtics and the Atlanta Hawks. It’s not the Dallas Mavericks, it’s not the Miami Heat, it’s not the New York Knicks, it’s not the Oklahoma City Thunder, it’s not the Orlando Magic. It’s just those three. Have we been able to win a championship? No. But our goal is to be as competitive and entertaining as possible and it’s unrealistic to every year have the only measure of your success as winning a championship because one in 30 do it. So you keep getting better and competing each year in order to try to complete for that championship.
Now last year if, we had lost in the first round or gotten blown out in the second round, our roster would look like a lot different because we would say, ‘You know what? Time to make a change, let’s blow this up.’ Instead, we’ve got a core group that each year keeps chipping away and getting better. They are still pretty darn young when you look at that core. . . .
One thing nobody has really given us credit for is last year the Atlanta Hawks had the most competitive [second-round] series than they’ve had in 18 years. Our big trade in February that got us past the first round—I would say [Kirk Hinrich's] defense on Jameer Nelson was a difference-maker and also the way we played [Dwight] Howard. Hinrich was out that second round [and], on the positive, we got to see Jeff Teague go against the best point guard in the NBA. And he played at an elite level against that player. He shot just as well from the field. Averaged–before that last game where he hurt his wrist–averaged 17 points per game he was controlling the ball, he was protecting the ball, and as a result were able to compete with Chicago where most people thought we would be swept.
So going into this season, we still keep getting better because of the playoff success we had last year.
What’s frustrating, from a fan perspective, is that you would look at Atlanta in this market. . . . Tim, you understand the risk we took to get Joe and the reward we got. Unfortunately I think some of that message got lost publicly and how we’ve been viewed [negatively] regardless of the success we had. And I look at things where people say, ‘Oh, well, the Hawks owners are cheap.’ That’s something I hear constantly whether it’s written or radio guys. Yet when you look at the facts . . . This year we will probably have one of the top 5 payrolls in the NBA. It will be right around $70 [million], I will tell you if we are at the trade deadline and we feel like we are missing that piece, that we will think will take us over the top, [we will pay the tax]. . . .You look at the Hawks, if you look at our payroll vs. the Falcons—I don’t want to crap on the Falcons in the paper but everybody acts like Falcons do whatever it takes to win—their payroll the last three, four years as been in the lower third in the league. They were 25th in 08-09, 26th in 09-10, 26th in 2010-11. Now let’s contrast that with us. 2010-11 we were ninth; 2009-10 we were 21st. This year we will probably be fifth. What I struggle with is when the facts don’t support the [negative] view. . . . You and I, we need the Hawks to have the same energy and perception in the public the Falcons do in order to have more bloggers, more viewers. I look at the Falcons, they’ve got 1,500 people [commenting on AJC blogs]. The image of that team has been shaped as, they will do whatever it takes to be successful. Now contrast their success to ours. The last playoff game they won was in’04. That’s just a fact. Michael Vick was still on the team then. We’ve won in the playoffs three years in a row. I hope the Falcons make the playoffs this year and I hope they win the Super Bowl because I’m in Atlantan and I’m a huge fan of every team here. They’ve never made the playoffs three years in a row. You would think every decision they make is just a bright decision based on how it’s portrayed. We get criticized because the bar is the tax instead of the cap. I don’t think our fans understand, we do spend money and we are one of the highest payrolls.
I told Gearon I think sophisticated fans know that the owners spend money but they take issue with how those resources are allocated.
And I can handle that. I love that. I want a buzz. I want a pulse. And I’m thick-skinned enough . . . come at me. I’m not a person that has a problem accepting criticism. The issues for me is being sure the reader or the fan knows both sides. The passionate [basketball] fan, we have. It’s trying to get the interest of the casual fan that doesn’t know us and believes, ‘They really don’t spend money and they are not successful.’ The problem is I have with that, those two statements, compared to the other teams in the city, are factually incorrect. The last six or seven years, by our record, we are the most successful team in Atlanta. I used to tell people, with the Thrashers, bring [the criticism] on. The Thrashers have sucked. I’m not here to defend that. I am a basketball guy. I will tell you as an investor I loved the Atlanta Thrashers, I busted my tail to do what I could to try to keep them here, I was disappointed they left. I think Tim saw some of the emotions that I lived through, the pain in my own household. . . . As a man, I was the one guy that said I will step up in front of everyone and make whatever statement is necessary even though I’ve never been perceived as the hockey guy.
One of the challenges you have, and I have, we need this team to have a pulse if we are going to grow the fanbase, which hopefully grows your bloggers and your readers and grows our season-ticket holders. The passionate fan is fantastic because they come. What we are trying to do is attract the casual fan who thinks the Braves are more successful, or that their owner cares more. I can tell you with absolute certainty that there is not an owner in professional sports who has been to as many games of the team that they own than I have. Because I’ve been doing it since I was 5, and there is nothing that would bring me greater joy than winning a championship. But what I don’t want to do is blow up the roster and have seven years of failure as you try to get there.
When we bought the team, we were the first NBA team to say we are going to scrap it and build through the draft. We are going to be patient about it and we are going to try to build assets and then trade selectively when we felt like the right piece was there. Ironically, when you look around the league, that’s the Oklahoma City model. That was the Portland model. That was the L.A. Clippers’ model until they did the Chris Paul deal. A lot of teams adopted that thinking that’s the right strategy. Around the league our peers look at us and say, ‘You guys have done a hell of a job running that franchise because you are in a market that’s not a large revenue market, you’ve been competitive, you’ve kept your base players, you’ve been willing to pay Josh Smith 50-something million, Al Horford his $60 million, Joe Johnson his $100 million, Marvin his $40 million and so forth.
With Jamal, I love Jamal, that was one of toughest decisions we faced as an organization. I think if it were the old CBA, we might have looked at it differently. But the biggest challenge we face from a pragmatic standpoint is there are three guys who get the minutes [at guard], and what happens when you have four and how does that work? I hope Jamal kills it in Portland because he’s a great person. We’ve tried over the years . . . with Joe Johnson we could have lost Joe. We could have said, ‘You know what, the other teams that were after him, Chicago, Miami, New York, we will let him go.’ But where would we be? We wouldn’t have gotten anything.
You could have signed-and-traded him and got something in return.
You are right, if you get something of value coming back. A lot of times you get a marginal player. With Joe, I did this last night—it caused me to be up until 2 in the morning, but it was a helpful exercise—Joe Johnson is one of only 10 guys that has made the All-Star game five years in a row. And yet he gets all this huge criticism. And he really does care. You see his conditioning. So many guys get their contracts and they come in [out of shape]. There are a handful of guys in the league who you know no matter what they are making they are going to come nad play as hard as possible. Kobe is that way, LeBron is that way, Wade is that way, Jordan was that way. Joe is that way conditioning-wise [but] Joe’s personality isn’t that way. He’s so quiet. In the seven years I’ve known him I think he has said 50 words to me. And I’ve reached out to him like I have all these guys and said, ‘If there is anything I can help you on, any business advice, let me know.’ But if you look at that collection of guys, the All-Stars over [five] years it’s LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Kobe Bryant, Kobe Bryant, Dirk Nowitxzki, Amare Stoudemire, Chris Bosh. It’s not Chris Bosh, it’s not Carmelo Anthony, who are great players, but you hear this buzz with those two guys like they are the second coming. But you go back and say what did Denver do with Carmelo Anthony? They made it past the first round once. What did New Orleans do with Chris Paul? Go past the first round once. What did the Hawks do with Joe Johnson? They’ve gotten past the first round three years in a row. Joe deserves some credit for that. Does he a have a big contract? Absolutely. But I think for a fanbase, they should say, ‘I’m glad those owners stepped up to pay him instead of let him go for nothing.’
Joe had what he admits was his worst season after getting that contract. Does he have to play better to justify that contract?
I think what justifies that contract is the success of the team. We had the best playoff success we’ve had in our tenure as owners last year. So I don’t judge Joe Johnson on the regular season. We took away the home-court advantage from the team with the best record during the regular season. I think the way we beat them up caused them to lose to Miami. I really do. For us as an organization we are going to judge our success by how we do in the playoffs. Are we going to be competitive and show up? Fortunately we’ve got all of our core players, and you’ve written some of this, they’ve come in to camp in shape. And I appreciate, as a fan and as an owner, the piece you did on Teague. That was a great piece. It’s right on that if we are going to play well this year, it’s going to be more up-tempo offensively and more lock-down defensively and we are going to look different. And I think that for fans it is going to be more exciting because it’s not going to be pounding the ball.
Are you concerned about what happened during the regular season, when you had a lot of blowout losses? That doesn’t usually happen to good teams.
I think we played well against competitive teams. We played well against Miami. We played well against Orlando. We struggled against Boston. We played well against Chicago. We had a point where we were on pace for the same record 9as 2009-10]. Then once we locked into, the last 10 games, into that fifth seed and it didn’t matter what we did, we went from being from 44-32 to 44-38 because I think we lost our last five or six and that’s what stuck with the team. I think what hurt us with our blowouts was our inability to play defense consistently and we are hoping we can do that this year.
As you can see, if you look at the culture of the team we have right now we are bringing veterans in. When Al Horford is on the court, he sees Tracy McGrady out there ans there is that respect as a veteran. Those pieces that aren’t necessarily the superstars–the DeShawn Stevensons, the Robert Horrys–those sometimes are the ones that make the difference and hit the shot. But they are veterans that are used to that moment and that’s how we try to build our roster this year.
Over the last four years we’ve had no problem with the assets. We moved Shelden Williams and Acie Law for Mike Bibby and got a pretty good point guard. Then we moved Mike Bibby and got Kirk Hinrich, and we moved Acie Law and got Jamal. There are pieces that we’ve been able to move but we’ve done it selectively. Unfortunately Kirk was hurt and we didn’t get to see him for a full season and we won’t get to see him for a full season this year. Our hope is by the time we reach the playoffs he is healthy and our team is clicking.
Gearon on what he says is an unfair perception, fueled by local media, that the Hawks are not successful and the owners don’t spend money.
It’s more of [an AJC] columnist issue. The way it is written is we are cheap, we are bad owners, we do a horrible job and we don’t care. [Tucker] did a piece five or six years ago, he did a father-son piece and he picked my father and I about the bond we had going to [Hawks] games as a kid. Back in the late 70s, 60s they had Picture Day. There I am with Pistol Pete Maravich and Lou Hudson. I think what is tough is, the perception we don’t care is grossly accurate for myself. Because I do care and there is not a day or night that goes by that I’m not miserable when we lose and not high when we win. I’ve also tried not to lose perspective and blow up a roster just for the sake of blowing it up.
For example, last year Orlando had a 10-game stretch where they struggled and blew up their roster. Greatest thing that ever happened to us because they got rid of Gortat, got rid of Pietrus. If you look at the team that blew us out [in the 2010 playoffs], Pietrus was a great defender that can spread the floor, Barnes is a great defender who can spread the floor, Gortat. And they get rid of these guys and you look at what they got back and you kind of scratch their head. . . . We haven’t seen enough to say this team is not capable of competing [for a title]. I say that because there are only three teams out of 30 that have gotten out of that first round three years [in a row]. And they are young. Josh Smith and Marvin are 26-years old, and Teague is 22 and Joe is 30, and Joe plays like Paul Pierce. He’ll play until he’s 36 because Joe is not dependent on his athleticism like a Kobe, like a Dominique, like a Jordan. He’s got a cagey game, he’s got size. I think he’s going to be a good player in his mid-30s. When you blow something up, you want to do it [only] if you can get something better.
So are you willing trade one of your core pieces now to get a superstar?
I am very careful of saying that [publicly] because it does no good. We have a core group that is very competitive. I think they are always trying to get better and there is nothing we’ve seen there that would allow us to get better, and I’m comfortable saying that. You’ve got to be careful. You see the comments coming out of the Lakers [after the Paul-Lamar Odom trade nixed by the league]. It’s a hornets nest right now.
You’ve said in the past there are only a handful of players who are worth paying luxury tax to acquire. Do you still have that view?
I think we would go into it if we felt like it was that one piece that would make a difference. But with the new CBA it makes that extremely challenging, which is why you see some teams like Dallas willing to lose a player to maintain flexibility.
Do you think that’s because of the more punitive tax that takes effect in 2013 or because of the so-called apron of $74 million [after which teams can't use the full mid-level or do sign-and-trades].
I don’t think it’s the tax, because Mark [Cuban] has never had a problem writing a big check. I think it is [the apron]. I think it’s wanting the space so guys will be here. I know some players in the league and I think Atlanta—forget what Kenny Smith or Barkley says on TV—Atlanta is one of the more desirable [cities] for athletes to live. Guys like living here. If you look at so many players who live here, they love the city.
Then why do you think it is that the Hawks don’t make the cut when superstars list the franchises they’d like to join?
I think it’s more the players on those teams being very outspoken and going after it. Stoudemire is an outspoken guy in New York. The Lakers are the Lakers they don’t have to [recruit]. They’ve got the legacy. When you hear players looking at franchises, it’s more players listening to other players.
Former Hawks player Steve Smith says he thinks ownership instability plays a role.
My view—and this gets back to what’s perception vs. reality—you look at stability, there is a lot of stuff written and it’s not supported by fact. We’ve kept all of our core players. We’ve invested in the team, we are willing to have one of the higher payrolls and we are competitive. Steve Smith thinks that because he picks up Jeff Schultz and reads him. What I see in the Internet world, when you look at the last eight or nine years, you will have columnists who write certain things, then it gets picked up nationally, and then all of a sudden that’s just the view.
I think there is a perception among fans that the owners tried to sell the team and now they aren’t committed. What do you say to those fans?
We’ve got our players, and look at our payroll. Going through seven-year legal battle where somebody sues you and it’s over a player that makes your team better. You win. It’s not your fault. Everybody says we sue each other—we got sued. The facts of the matter are, our GM wanted Joe Johnson, we supported that. Our partner didn’t. He didn’t want to spend money, we did, we win. The combination of that and living through [the Thrashers sale] was draining. I think we left three or four days after the press conference and I didn’t come back until mid-August. I think I was in Atlanta for maybe two days. I actually thought that maybe somebody, a new face [as Hawks owner], maybe would be better. I’m very pleased with where things ended up [with the sale].
Are you still trying to sale the team?
No.
Not at all?
No. But who knows whatever happens in any situation. If somebody comes and offers you something you never know but that’s not what my goal is. [Gearon says he no longer has the investment bank that handled that sale on retainer.]
Tucker told Gearon he still seems to be passionate about the Hawks.
I can’t wait until we play. I hope you can tell by the way I’m acting. It’s real hard to build a competitive team. It’s real easy when you are lucky enough to have the draft pick and get one of [top] five guys in the NBA right now. You can surround those five guys with just about anybody and still compete. Case in point is Cleveland. With LeBron they went to the Eastern Conference finals at least two times, never lost in the first round. He’s a difference-maker with the team. . . .
It is tough. [People say] the ownership is messy and this or that and there are so many misperceptions, even looking at how many investors we have. We have fewer investors than most NBA teams in the league. And reality is Bruce [Levenson] and I have managed it the last seven or eight years. That’s exactly what it is in Boston with Steve Pagliuca and Grousbeck . Yet there is nothing negative that is written about that. The way I look at it if we are just starting out and you want to critique that and it doesn’t work, but when you have a body of work that’s been successful or more successful than any team in Atlanta, yet you critique it? Is that fair?
Rick Sund is in the final year of his contract. How do you evaluate his performance? Are you discussing a contract extension with him?
To take a page out of Rick’s book, we won’t discuss extensions with guys until the end of the year. I like the job Rick has done. I like the job Larry [Drew] has done. Larry got us past Orlando. I thought he outcoached [Stan] Van Gundy. I thought he outcoached [Tom] Thibodeau but they had a hell of a team. What people don’t even realize, I don’t think the oddsmakers had us winning one playoff game out of 12 and we beat Orlando and took Chicago to six. I don’t think [the oddsmakers] were right and the record shows they are wrong but that was the perception. That playoff series, and knowing what Teague can do and putting Hinrich in there, I think we win one of those games and the defensive energy overall would be better. That’s not Jamal’s strength.
You said Teague is a key for this team. What else has to go right?
You have to see the continued growth of our young core. Josh has got to continue to improve, Marvin has got to improve, Al has got to improve. Joe is pretty reliable. I respect and like the fact Joe looks at last year and challenges himself. Joe always comes in in great shape. It’s hard to find guys like that. The guy always stays in shape and he’s a pro. That’s why I look at him because this poor kid gets criticized as if he is a failure when you look at it and say, ‘Wait a minute, let’s judge how he’s done.’ Dwyane Wade could not get past the first round without LeBron or Shaq. Joe has done it. And I think Dwyane is an unbelievable player, so I’m not trying to say Joe is better than Wade. But you judge somebody by their success and Joe came here, we were really young and each year we got better in the regular season until last year and we took a step back, but we were better in the playoffs. I would trade the regular season five extra wins for better success in the playoffs. I do feel like we as a franchise will judge ourselves by how we do in the playoffs. And I want more consistency. When you are talking about [blowout] losses, we want to be a more consistent team in the playoffs.
Tucker asked Gearon why he changed his mind about selling the team.
New CBA. Having one less team to deal with. We resolved the [Steve] Belkin thing last year. Then we had the issue with our lawyers, got that behind us. It is emotionally draining and challenging to own and operate two teams. Very few teams in sports do it and it’s usually a corporation. [Stan] Kroenke is only one I can think of off the top of my head as an individual.
Tucker asked Gearon how season-ticket sells are going for the Hawks.
We are doing good. I think where we are struggling, and this is what the whole league, there is a chunk of revenue that comes from group and corporate sells. You usually sell those in the summer where you go to Home Depot and say, ‘We have a game on Saturday night in January, bring your company.’ But without knowing the schedule, we couldn’t sell that. I think the league as a whole is struggling with that. Tracy [White, senior VP of sales and marketing], two days ago said we are doing better at this point than we were last year.
Tucker asked Gearon how many season tickets the Hawks have sold.
I don’t spend a lot of time looking at the numbers except at the beginning of the year and the end of the year because you focus on basketball.
Do you have a special challenge in this market because so much of the population lives in the suburbs?
I think it’s a struggle for all sports teams in Atlanta. The league judges us on this massive demographics that go all the way out to Buford. That’s not a market.
Tucker asked Gearon what specifically about the new CBA makes him more optimitisc.
At the beginning of the summer, you saw the condition I was in, I’m crying on the TV and radio and I was just drained and exhausted. . . . I was emotionally spent. I thought maybe a new face [as owner] might make a difference. Being able to step back over the summer, [I was able to] get recharged,, get energized again. Looking at the new CBA, it is better for us. Long term I think there will be fewer teams to spend—I think the disparity between payrolls is going to be less. Last year you had the highest payroll in the league was $100 million and the lowest was $40 million. I think you are going to see that gap narrow. That’s a plus for us. We’ve been willing to be one of the bigger spenders but we have not been the biggest spender. Revenue assistance is a big question mark for us right now. I can’t tell at this point. We will receive revenue assistance and we did not under the old CBA.
What will it take to increase revenues for the Hawks?
One is being sure our fan base, that the perception of the team is accurate with the success and the commitment we have made to the team. We are a group that cares as much as anybody. I love the Atlanta Hawks. I was the biggest fan before I invested in the team and consider myself one of the biggest fans now. And I don’t think the fan base understands how much we really care. Part of it is changing the perception of us. Are we willing to spend money? We’ve done that. The knowledgeable fan gets it, but the one you are trying to lure in, they don’t get it. The young kids get it. My son’s friends, they don’t read the paper. They go watch a playoff team.
But I will tell you I think, when you are building a team long-term . . . take the kids who were in high school four years ago and now are juniors and seniors in college and they are still following us. I was out in Colorado last year or the summer before and I was wearing a Hawks shirt, which I don’t do a lot of in front of people because I think it’s kind of a gimmick. I pass this guy he says, ‘You are a Hawks fan?’ He says, ‘Oh I love that team.’ He was watching us in the playoffs. I didn’t tell him I was part of the team but I was very curious to hear what he had to say as a fan. He said, ‘God, man, this team has been so exciting the last couple of years.’
The one thing that is incredible—you have only been here a couple years, Mike—the Hawks were not known to be, and frankly no teams in Atlanta were known to be a team that can win a seven-game series. The Hawks struggled with that forever. Then we took Boston to seven games and lose [in 2008], which that was fun because we weren’t expected to win a game, we were 36-45, they had the best record in the league. We beat them every game here, we got blown out there, but we had some great games here. Then the next year we take Miami seven games and Joe, in that seventh game, he won the game for us. Next year we play Miklwaukee–seven games. As a fan I’d rather play seven games and come out on top than win four to nothing. Because that’s not a fun series. You want enough of a rivalry. it gets back to parity. Showing up in Boston for Game 7 was a lot different than showing up for Game 1 and 2 because their fanbase realized, ‘Damn, this is a real team.’ And it made for a great seventh game—well, not saying great, we got blown out, but the anticipation was great. Two out of three years we’ve won seven-game series.
How do you grow [revenue]? By getting to the fai-rweather fan and [make him] realize, one, we care, two we are willing to spend money and three look at our success.
Tucker asks Gearon why he and his partners dropped the Atlanta Spirit name.
I’ve never liked that name. It wasn’t my idea in the first place.
Tucker asks if Bruce Levenson is still engaged with the Hawks.
He is very much re-energized. He was heavily involved in the CBA, I was not. He’s the governor [the team's representative on the NBA Board of Governors].
Did Levenson vote against the CBA?
I don’t want to answer for it. You can ask Bruce Levenson.
Michael Cunningham, Hawks beat
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291 comments Add your comment
Grandmaster JeJe
December 17th, 2011
5:54 pm
FIRE GEARON
Grandad
December 17th, 2011
5:54 pm
Just wanted to be 1st
Grandad
December 17th, 2011
5:55 pm
Too bad – too slow, maybe next time.
Najeh Davenpoop
December 17th, 2011
5:55 pm
The only valid point Gearon makes is that the Falcons are perceived in a much more positive light than the Hawks despite accomplishing less. Other than that, this is the same self-serving spin the DASG has been BSing us with since day one.
Grandmaster JeJe
December 17th, 2011
5:57 pm
HALF THE NBA TEAMS MAKE THE PLAYOFFS. ITS NOT THE SAME AS NFL OR MLB
Grandmaster JeJe
December 17th, 2011
6:01 pm
MOST ARROGANT OWNER IN SPORTS
Grandmaster JeJe
December 17th, 2011
6:02 pm
GRANDAD YOU ARE A LEGEND HERE.
I AM A GRANDMASTER. FIRST
Najeh Davenpoop
December 17th, 2011
6:03 pm
“Because I do care and there is not a day or night that goes by that I’m not miserable when we lose and not high when we win.”
Maybe if you quit getting high when they won and stayed sober, you would realize that the 2nd round is this team’s ceiling and no amount of spin is going to convince the fans otherwise.
Grandmaster JeJe
December 17th, 2011
6:04 pm
WE PLAYED WELL VS MIAMI? WE LOST BOTH HOME GAMES. WE LOST AT HOME TO CHICAGO BY 43776 POINTS
OMG. SOMEONE AMNESTY THIS GUY.. I AM WILLING TO FORFEIT A SEASON TO SEE A NEW OWNERSHIP INSTALLED
Najeh Davenpoop
December 17th, 2011
6:05 pm
” Joe plays like Paul Pierce. ”
Apparently in Gearon’s universe, nobody keeps track of free throw attempts.
Harry Hawk
December 17th, 2011
6:05 pm
Gearon’s a fool. Just ask him about his hockey team.
Najeh Davenpoop
December 17th, 2011
6:07 pm
” Those pieces that aren’t necessarily the superstars–the DeShawn Stevensons, the Robert Horrys–those sometimes are the ones that make the difference and hit the shot.”
Funny he should mention DeShawn Stevenson. Stevenson is still a free agent. If Gearon likes him so much, he can go get him. But oh yeah, that would mean they go into the luxury tax.
You know why everyone likes the Lakers and Celtics, Gearon? Because they do whatever it takes to win championships. That includes going into the luxury tax to get that extra piece that will put them over the top.
Astro Joe
December 17th, 2011
6:07 pm
Interesting to hear that Levenson is the team’s governor. That is new news to me.
Harry Hawk
December 17th, 2011
6:08 pm
I love that. I want a buzz. I want a pulse. And I’m thick-skinned enough . . . come at me.
Oh, I don’t think he wants that.
Najeh Davenpoop
December 17th, 2011
6:09 pm
“Gearon on what he says is an unfair perception, fueled by local media, that the Hawks are not successful and the owners don’t spend money.
It’s more of [an AJC] columnist issue”
Yeah, because at this point AJC columnists and people who post on this blog are the only ones who still care about the Hawks.
Najeh Davenpoop
December 17th, 2011
6:10 pm
I should also point out that the luxury tax wouldn’t even be an issue right now if Marvin wasn’t being paid twice as much as he’d get on the open market right now.
Carrlos Lyles
December 17th, 2011
6:10 pm
I like Gearon..
Slimjr
December 17th, 2011
6:10 pm
Gearon KICK ROCKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Slimjr
December 17th, 2011
6:11 pm
Must be nice to be born with 300 millie in the Bank?
Najeh Davenpoop
December 17th, 2011
6:12 pm
“I think it’s more the players on those teams being very outspoken and going after it. Stoudemire is an outspoken guy in New York. The Lakers are the Lakers they don’t have to [recruit]. They’ve got the legacy. When you hear players looking at franchises, it’s more players listening to other players.”
Can someone translate this into English?
Grandmaster JeJe
December 17th, 2011
6:13 pm
that thinking that’s the right strategy. Around the league our peers look at us and say, ‘You guys have done a hell of a job running that franchise because you are in a market that’s not a large revenue market, you’ve been competitive
IT WOULD BE A LARGE REVENUE MARKET IF U IDIOTS ACTUALLY FILLED THE ROSTER WITH MARKETABLE PLAYERS. WE HAD THE OLYMPICS FIFTEEN YEARS AGO FOR A REASON
Slimjr
December 17th, 2011
6:13 pm
Paul Pierce does a fantastic job of selling fouls to the refs.. ISO, not so much…….
Grandmaster JeJe
December 17th, 2011
6:13 pm
NAJEH FOR BLOGGER OF THE YEAR
Slimjr
December 17th, 2011
6:14 pm
Gearon, are you running for office or something?
Najeh Davenpoop
December 17th, 2011
6:15 pm
“It’s real easy when you are lucky enough to have the draft pick and get one of [top] five guys in the NBA right now. ”
You mean like when you have the #2 pick in the draft and two franchise-caliber point guards are available, either one of whom could have been throwing alley oops to Josh Smith for the last six years? You mean like that?
Slimjr
December 17th, 2011
6:16 pm
Hey Gearon, why do Allstar FA’s avoid you like the plague?
Najeh Davenpoop
December 17th, 2011
6:18 pm
The single funniest part about this Q&A is how he seems to think Jeff Schultz is the reason why everyone hates the DASG. I don’t exactly agree with everything Schultz says, but I read most of his articles, and there is always a back and forth debate in the comments on pretty much every topic, with some people disagreeing with some other people. The only exception is when he talks about the DASG. When that happens, EVERYONE agrees with him. That should tell Gearon something, but clearly it doesn’t.
No, Gearon. Saying Schultz is the reason you suck is like saying Marilyn Manson caused the kids at Columbine to start shooting. Stop scapegoating and look in the mirror.
Buddy Grizzard
December 17th, 2011
6:18 pm
Gearon doesn’t understand whey the Hawks are perceived as cheap after they took the 8th-highest payroll team and gave it the lowest-paid, most under-qualified and completely over-matched coach in the NBA, if not in all of the four major sports leagues. I wonder why superstars don’t want to play here?
Slimjr
December 17th, 2011
6:19 pm
Word on the street is you did not want CP3 Gearon. Knight may have been leaning towards drafting him but no you had other plans GENIUS!
Grandad
December 17th, 2011
6:19 pm
” But our goal is to be as competitive
and *entertaining as possible and it’s **unrealistic
to every year have the only measure of your success
as winning a championship because one in 30 do it ”
flawed philosophy = loser !
Spin / Spin / Spin
Thank you Michael for this enlightening article.
Gearon lives in some sort of fantasy world.
More to come as I must re-read, I am pissed.
Najeh Davenpoop
December 17th, 2011
6:21 pm
“Joe Johnson is one of only 10 guys that has made the All-Star game five years in a row. And yet he gets all this huge criticism. ”
This is true. Joe does at times get unfairly criticized. But even that is the DASG’s fault. If the DASG hadn’t been trying to sell him to Atlanta fans as a superstar the last six years — if they had drafted CP3 the same summer they signed him, for example, and allowed him to be the #2 option that everyone knows he is — he wouldn’t be getting anywhere near this level of criticism. Joe has fulfilled every reasonable expectation that we could have had of him. It’s the DASG’s fault that many ATL fans’ expectations for Joe have been unreasonable.
Grandmaster JeJe
December 17th, 2011
6:22 pm
I thought he outcoached [Tom] Thibodeau but they had a hell of a team.
DID HE OUTCOACH HIM WITH HIS BS TWO FOUL RULE THAT COST US GAME TWO AND THE SERIES?
Najeh Davenpoop
December 17th, 2011
6:22 pm
“But you go back and say what did Denver do with Carmelo Anthony? They made it past the first round once. ”
Yeah, and that year, they made it to the CONFERENCE FINALS. You know, those things the Hawks have never been to IN THE ENTIRE HISTORY OF THIS FRANCHISE.
Melo 1, Hawks 0.
Slimjr
December 17th, 2011
6:22 pm
Thats right godfather Gearon blame a reporter for your failures..@#$%^&*!
BTW perception is reality Mr Bigs!
Grandad
December 17th, 2011
6:24 pm
I cannot believe he tried to compare the Hawks
to the Falcons, Braves, etc.
[apples to butterbeans to turnipgreens]
* -not even apples to oranges to peaches-
Grandmaster JeJe
December 17th, 2011
6:24 pm
so I’m not trying to say Joe is better than Wade.
BS
Najeh Davenpoop
December 17th, 2011
6:25 pm
“You are right, if you get something of value coming back. A lot of times you get a marginal player.”
A lot of times you get a marginal player when you make trades, when you employ a GM who in 31 years has never presided over a team that made it to the NBA Finals.
Najeh Davenpoop
December 17th, 2011
6:29 pm
“I don’t think the oddsmakers had us winning one playoff game out of 12 and we beat Orlando and took Chicago to six. I don’t think [the oddsmakers] were right and the record shows they are wrong but that was the perception.”
So the goal is to beat the oddsmakers then?
You realize that odds are not the same things as predictions, right? They set odds at the point where they will maximize profits. Odds are a reflection of public perception. If the odds are stacked against the Hawks, all it means is that bettors think the Hawks suck too.
Maybe they have been reading too much Jeff Schultz.
Astro Joe
December 17th, 2011
6:29 pm
The best we can hope for (and Rev or someone else suggested this a few weeks ago), is that now that they have disposed of the Thrashers, ended their multitude of lawsuits and have a more owner-friendly CBA, that they will begin anew and become the kind of owners we’d like. Of course, that won’t happen until next summer at the earliest, that is when the contracts of Sund and LD expire and they can truly wipe the slate clean and start all over. Potentially, we may have to endure another horrible season that concludes with a top 4 finish in the conference.
Grandmaster JeJe
December 17th, 2011
6:31 pm
I don’t spend a lot of time looking at the numbers except at the beginning of the year and the end of the year because you focus on basketball.
HE COULD CARE LESS IF WE SHOW UP
Najeh Davenpoop
December 17th, 2011
6:32 pm
“My view—and this gets back to what’s perception vs. reality—you look at stability, there is a lot of stuff written and it’s not supported by fact.”
Everything that was written about you clowns fighting court battles and failing to sell to the pizza guy were all supported by facts.
Grandmaster JeJe
December 17th, 2011
6:34 pm
LOL @ Najeh. I laughed at every one of your posts.
Sli,jr, how much is thos guy actually worth?
Whats the DBASG’s new ownership name?
Sautee
December 17th, 2011
6:36 pm
Najeh,
Excellent translations.
Najeh Davenpoop
December 17th, 2011
6:37 pm
“I think it’s a struggle for all sports teams in Atlanta. The league judges us on this massive demographics that go all the way out to Buford. That’s not a market.”
Go look at a map of the Dallas metro area, Houston metro area, Phoenix metro area, Los Angeles metro area… sh-t, pretty much any metro area in the south or the west. All those cities are spread out. I hope you are not trying to say people don’t come to Hawks games because they live too far away. Give me a break. The Braves and Falcons have fans driving in from other states to watch games.
Slimjr
December 17th, 2011
6:38 pm
I believe I heard last year the Mr Bigs is worth at least 300 million and the rest his boys combined, over 1 billion usd!
Grandmaster JeJe
December 17th, 2011
6:39 pm
I WISH ONE OF THOSE CALI BILLIONAIRES COULD BUY THIS TEAM. OR BERNIE MARCUS, ARTHUR BLANK, TED TURNER
PLEASEEEEE
Najeh Davenpoop
December 17th, 2011
6:40 pm
“The young kids get it. My son’s friends, they don’t read the paper. They go watch a playoff team.”
Great marketing strategy. Just market to all the young children and illiterate people who live in metro Atlanta and whose pure hearts haven’t been corrupted by the darkness and evil that is Jeff Schultz, and everything will be fine.
northcyde
December 17th, 2011
6:40 pm
LOL . . . the first paragraph pzzzed me off from the beginning, so let me read this, highlight a quote, and respond to it while I’m reading, so I won’t forget any thoughts.
((( There are three teams the last three years that have advanced past the first round. The Lakers—who everybody loves the Lakers—the Celtics and the Atlanta Hawks. ))
Will somebody tell this dude that nobody gives a DAMN about who has made it out the 1st round the last 3 years? Especially when our 2nd round record is 2 – 12. I mean . . damn Gearon. You can’t be this dumb man. Why even put us in the same category of 2 teams that have won 3 championships in the past 4 years, when we don’t even have a .200 winning percentage in the 2nd round.
************
((( But our goal is to be as competitive and entertaining as possible and it’s unrealistic to every year have the only measure of your success as winning a championship because one in 30 do it. )))
It’s unrealistic to you because you have NEVER had that goal. That’s part of the problem. A BIG PART.
((( You look at the Hawks, if you look at our payroll vs. the Falcons—I don’t want to crap on the Falcons in the paper but everybody acts like Falcons do whatever it takes to win—their payroll the last three, four years as been the lower in the league. )))
LOL @ bringing the Falcons into this. WTF do the Falcons have to do with ANYTHING that we do?
Damn . . you know what? It’s probably no way I comment on every single thing, so i’ll just end this post right here and read the rest of it, then make an overall comment.
SMH @ this dude. We’re at playoff level right now. If you’re not willing to go that EXTRA MILE to put us into championship contention, SELL THE TEAM TO SOMEBODY THAT WILL !!!
Section 303
December 17th, 2011
6:41 pm
Najeh, have to disagree with you on this one. I liked Gearon when he spoke to season ticket holders last year. He is a good dude. And, I agree that Bradley and Schultz go out of their way to rip the Hawks. I think Bradley and Schultz have cut on the team so much over the years that they look stupid now that the team is good.
My beef with The ASG is losing the Thrashers. Not even a hockey fan. I just think it is absurd we lost our team.
And, F the Falcons, too. No team has ever gotten their nuts sucked so much while doing so little
Slimjr
December 17th, 2011
6:42 pm
If we could buy this ship, I bet these brilliant Bloggers would have a Championship team within 3-5 years. Not 47 more years…lol
Grandmaster JeJe
December 17th, 2011
6:42 pm
ONE YR AGO THEY SAID THEYD GO INTO LT FOR RIGHT PLAYER. R U TRYING TO TELL ME THAT THEY WERE NOT ABLE TO FIND ONE PLAYER TO IMPROVE THIS TEAM
Najeh Davenpoop
December 17th, 2011
6:43 pm
That’s all I got. Great Q&A MC.
Grandmaster JeJe
December 17th, 2011
6:46 pm
Great job MC. You asked all the right questions. Too bad that guy is so delusional, conceited, and far from reality
Buddy Grizzard
December 17th, 2011
6:48 pm
“Hawks had the most competitive [second-round] series than they’ve had in 18 years.”
Yes and they could have won it with a coach that wasn’t in over his head.
“And yet he gets all this huge criticism. And he really does care.”
He said “I don’t care if the fans show up.” It’s really hard to sell that Joe Johnson cares when he said “I DON’t CARE.”
“They should say, ‘I’m glad those owners stepped up to pay him instead of let him go for nothing.’”
I do say that. Last offseason I wanted the Hawks to let Joe walk or do a sign and trade and move on without him. In retrospect I’m glad we kept him because, as Gearon says, this team keeps getting better.
“Greatest thing that ever happened to us because they got rid of Gortat, got rid of Pietrus.”
This is so true. Sund may not be Sam Presti, but he’s no Otis Smith.
Najeh Davenpoop
December 17th, 2011
6:52 pm
One more thing.
” I was out in Colorado last year or the summer before and I was wearing a Hawks shirt, which I don’t do a lot of in front of people because I think it’s kind of a gimmick. I pass this guy he says, ‘You are a Hawks fan?’ He says, ‘Oh I love that team.’ ”
Colorado, huh? Do you plan on paying his airfare to fly out here to come to games?
Here’s a (serious) suggestion. Spend one day riding on MARTA all around ATL — you know, the city where your team is based, with the highest concentration of fans of your team. Wear your Hawks shirt. Strike up conversations with people about the Hawks, and see what people have to say. Don’t mention that you own the Hawks — not that anyone would recognize you anyway.
But when you talk to them, be sure to ask how they would react if you blew up your sacred core to rent Dwight Howard for one year with no assurance that he would stay long term. I am willing to bet that eight out of 10 people who watch the Hawks would be thrilled to see a Joe and Al for Dwight trade — which, by the way, wouldn’t even take the Hawks into the luxury tax.
Here’s the bottom line, Gearon. Fans are not stupid. We can watch CP3 or Carmelo play, and then watch Joe play, and see who is better. We can watch the Lakers and Celtics play and then watch the Hawks play and see who is better. No amount of spin from you is going to convince fans otherwise. When Jeff Schultz criticizes you, he is only voicing the opinion of the typical fan. Even if you think he is being unfair, the majority of ATL agrees with him, and unless you buy Cox Communications there is nothing you can do to shut him up.
If you want to change how you are perceived, do what George Costanza did. Do the exact opposite of what your instinct tells you to do.
And also, instead of clicking on Jeff Schultz’s articles, click on MC’s blog and come here and read what we say instead. The people who post on this blog, for whatever reason, care enough about the Hawks to where we are willing to take time out in our day to share our opinions about your woebegone franchise with complete strangers. If any group of people is an accurate reflection of what’s left of your fan base, it is us. Come here, listen to us, use the ideas you see expressed here, and make your franchise better.
Grandad
December 17th, 2011
7:02 pm
Okay – here’s the one that really gnawed at my scrotum.
we had the most competitive 2nd round play-off series last yr.
-paraphrase-
had we not made progress we would have blown it up.
-or something like that-
Inferring, that the only two way to do business are;
(1) stay the same … or …
(2) blow it up
I say:
No – one can improve upon recent success.
Okay, we made improvements last yr in the play-offs.
Please, do not sit on your ass.
Try to improve – the organic growth method – or whatever
they called it, those days are over.
You have needs;
acknowledge & acquire !
Nothing against you michael;
but Mr Gearon’s statements made me sick to my stomach.
drmaryb.[*_*].
December 17th, 2011
7:04 pm
Real Talk!
MC you did a spectacular job doing the interview and you asked phenomenal questions that we all wanted to hear.
I would have liked to hear Mr. Gearon explain why the owners do such a terrible job marketing this team and it’s stars?
I live in Roswell, GA and travel all around the perimeter however, I have NEVER seen one Hawks Billboard static nor dynamic (with movement, electricfied) anywhere. And, I had been a season ticket holder for 15 years straight under the previous ownership group.
Secondly, I would like to hear Mr. Gearon’s take on why the owners NEVER talk to, acknowledge nor address their fan base, except when they want to sell tickets in those lame and lazy emails?
Why not do a weekly radio show during the season like Arthur Blank does on Monday nights @ 7PM on a FM Band, for Mike Smith and they have regular visits from Thomas Dimitroff, Matty-Ice and other players.
Falcons Face to Face also comes to mind during the season to promote the team.
Most casual fans don’t even know who the hell the Hawks are, because you NEVER see them on a TV Show nor hear their voices on the Radio!!!!!!!
Aye Mr. Gearon, JR have you and, “The Fighting Temptations” ever heard of MARKETING 101? Instead of always crying and complaining about what the casual fans don’t do for you? What have you done for them lately?
No one on this blog feels sorry for you NUT JOBS – We hate you!!!!!!!!! And, we will eat our steaks at Bones in Buckhead and would rather die of starvation – before, we step foot inside your “RED” restaurant. Why Didn’t you spend that 2M on your roster instead? Don’t you need a PG and a bona fide Center? Didn’t Al and Josh tell you last year, before the season that they needed some help on the blocks, defending and Rebounding? What Did you do about that? Not one damned thing! Twin was hired to guard Dwight, but what about the rest of the league? Who’s gonna guard them?
So, please pack your bags, go back to Colorado and talk to your one fan there and, just leave A-Town! We don’t want you here! Just do us all a favor and go away!
We don’t cry for millionaires in Atlanta. I will support the players on this team vehemently! Yes you do spend money, but you do NOT spend wisely!!!!
Just go back at look at the money wasted on your payroll. You can do better and you want to pack the arena – you better do better!
Arthur Blank took out a full page Ad in the AJC to talk to his fan base and we will NEVER forget his soothing words.
You lose a series by 108 aggregate points and we hear nithing! Not one kind word nor, a regretful apology for that embarrassment to this city! Stop riding on the coat tails of your players success, they did that! Now go get them some useful helpers and start with your cheap azz bench!
G-Nite Mr. Gearon, Jr and stop b!tching to us about your self inflicted problems.
Najeh Davenpoop
December 17th, 2011
7:06 pm
“Will somebody tell this dude that nobody gives a DAMN about who has made it out the 1st round the last 3 years? ”
Haha… My cousin is a big Lakers fan, so one time I told him the Hawks were just as good as the Lakers since they made it out of the first round three times in a row, just to see what his reaction would be. He laughed for nearly a full minute.
Slimjr
December 17th, 2011
7:07 pm
“And, F the Falcons, too. No team has ever gotten their nuts sucked so much while doing so little”
Agreed section 303! The Falcons have won zero money games!!!!!!
Playoffs! PLAYOFFS???????????
Giants 48 Fal-cons 21 in the wild card game.. That NY crowd will be so loud that Ice will melt in his pants and the no huddle will fall by the way side….
Hawks Fan
December 17th, 2011
7:09 pm
You know what is funny, You guys all hide behind your computers and make these bold statements, but I bet none of you have the guts to actually say this stuff to peoples face.
As to the “Gearon being born with 300 mill in the bank” that is the biggest crap I have ever heard. Did you know Gearon lived of off 200$ a week until he got his buisness going? He worked his butt off to get where he is so when you say he was born with money that is crap.
Now on one particular person Najeh. Najeh if you were a true hawks fan you wouldn’t be saying this stuff. Honestly do you like to go and rant on people? I mean seriously what is you beef?
Najeh Davenpoop
December 17th, 2011
7:09 pm
” I liked Gearon when he spoke to season ticket holders last year. He is a good dude.”
I’m not saying he’s not a good dude. I’m not even questioning him when he talks about how much he loves the Hawks. I am only pointing out that a) he has been and continues to be a horrible owner, and b) he is so far removed from reality when it comes to why his team is perceived this way that it gives me very little hope that things are going to improve under his watch.
There are plenty of good dudes in this world who suck at what they do.
Najeh Davenpoop
December 17th, 2011
7:10 pm
” Najeh if you were a true hawks fan you wouldn’t be saying this stuff. Honestly do you like to go and rant on people? I mean seriously what is you beef?”
If I wasn’t a true Hawks fan, would I have just wasted a half an hour of my life responding to comments the Hawks owner made? Do you realize how few people in the world care AT ALL what Michael Gearon has to say, let alone are willing to take the time to post blog comments responding to them?
Being a “true fan” does not require being a sheep.
Najeh Davenpoop
December 17th, 2011
7:15 pm
Oh yeah, also…
“I bet none of you have the guts to actually say this stuff to peoples face.”
I absolutely would say all of this to Gearon’s face. What is he going to do, punch me? Fantastic PR move that would be. I can see the AJC headline now. “Hawks owner punches fan who points out his ineptitude”. Jeff Schultz would have a field day with that one.
If Gearon were smart, he would be reading every comment posted on every MC blog, every Peachtree Hoops blog, every Hawksquawk forum, etc. and using every criticism as a suggestion for improvement.
jdewayneatl
December 17th, 2011
7:19 pm
@Najeh Davenpoop, you just like every other blogger here are full of hot air and POOP.
“But when you talk to them, be sure to ask how they would react if you blew up your sacred core to rent Dwight Howard for one year with no assurance that he would stay long term. I am willing to bet that eight out of 10 people who watch the Hawks would be thrilled to see a Joe and Al for Dwight trade — which, by the way, wouldn’t even take the Hawks into the luxury tax.”
As soon as Dwight decides to leave, just as he is suggesting in Orlando, you and every other Hawks hater will be talking the same smack as before. Gearon is wise to discredit all those not looking at the facts because there is no satisfying the WORST FANBASE IN THE WORLD.
Carrlos Lyles
December 17th, 2011
7:19 pm
Gearon is not that bad of a guy.. look at it from a ownership position not only are they competitive but they are not going into the Red with overspending.. from a business standpoint they are doing good..
Slimjr
December 17th, 2011
7:20 pm
Hfan there a short pier with a long walk waiting for ya in Savannah.. I hear the Gulf Stream is still pretty warm these days.. “Great Whites” play ground……lol
drmaryb.[*_*].
December 17th, 2011
7:22 pm
The Dream Team!
The WNBA version of the Hawks have more heart, a better team and have accomplished more with less!!!!
The Atlanta Dream’s play off success blows The Hawks play off records outa’ the water. The Dream ARE an elite contender.
Any comments on those facts – Mr. Gearon, JR. Nothing personal against you Sir, but please don’t talk down to us. We are more intelligent that you are.
Your Hawks bloggers are elite and educated. We cover the demographics from entrepreneurs to lawyers to doctors to police officers to firefighters to musicians to the school bus drivers. We are the 99% ers. Don’t take us for granted, you’re not that smart.
Fixed your damned roster – you’re on the clock, sir.
Ray
December 17th, 2011
7:26 pm
One thing you can at least say for the falcons they may not have won a playoff game yet, but at least Blank isn’t afraid to make any moves. Plus they make smarter draft choices.
JSS
December 17th, 2011
7:27 pm
It’s been years since a owner and columnist had a public pissing contest in this market… This might get interesting… The Jeff Schultz Drive-by Hawks column against the most out of touch owner group in the ATL! He was right on a couple of points, but Gearon just does not get that he and DASG (name change won’t clear the stench fellas) are viewed like tainted Tylenol… No one trusts their vision of the problem… His take on demographics was spot on… Too bad he and the group has spoiled their own well…
Slimjr
December 17th, 2011
7:29 pm
tic toc!
Hey Gearon we are not asking you for the Starship Enterprise! The Enterprise Shuttle will do, just tweak the ship to put it back on course..Needs more tweaking…
For the record we know the the Space Shuttle Enterprise has been retired by NASA, but Hawks have not! lol
Najeh Davenpoop
December 17th, 2011
7:30 pm
“As soon as Dwight decides to leave, just as he is suggesting in Orlando, you and every other Hawks hater will be talking the same smack as before. Gearon is wise to discredit all those not looking at the facts because there is no satisfying the WORST FANBASE IN THE WORLD.”
I see Gearon’s family members are out in full force.
No, if he rents Dwight for a year and Dwight leaves, I wouldn’t be mad at them. I always support people who take calculated risks, as long as there is a reasonably good chance of that risk resulting in a reward. This is why, for example, I have a better opinion of Frank Wren (the Braves’ GM) than most people. A lot of his moves have been high risk and haven’t worked out, but he is never satisfied. He’s always willing to make moves to try to improve, and by doing so has built one of the more talented organizations in baseball, despite his occasional missteps.
Taking risks that backfire is a hell of a lot better than sitting on your hands and blaming everyone else for taking you for granted, which is what Gearon and the DASG are doing. If they blow up the core for a year of Dwight and he leaves, they just blew up a core that the city didn’t care much about and that wasn’t going to seriously contend anyway. So what? At least you give the city one year of a superstar, and leave yourself a clean slate to build a better team in the long run. And if they blow up the core for a year of Dwight and he stays, they have just locked down the biggest superstar this franchise has had in 20 years, completely changed the perception of this organization, and set themselves up to achieve heights this franchise has never seen. That is a good gamble.
drmaryb.[*_*].
December 17th, 2011
7:32 pm
AKA
Ha Ha! I guess we all know who the azz named: hawks fan is now (Mr. Gearon, JR?). The Real and upset fans have been blogging on here for 5 to 6 years minimum and trust me, we KNOW who we are!
Then here comes a “Johhny Come Lately” blogger out of nowhere? Keep it movin – poser! We don’t care ehat you have to say? We will SCROLL past your BS, so save your key strokes.
If Mr. Gearon, JR would give us some face time – we will MUSH him in the face too. Ain’t no coward. Sitting behind my key board. Tell the owners to hold a Town Hall if they are man enough to listen to a real fan go on blast!!!
I’m there!
JSS
December 17th, 2011
7:34 pm
@ DMB…
Kathy Betty was the only visionary owner that this town has produced since early Ted Turner. There is just nothing to dislike about that organization… The new dual owners have not come in and tried to re-invent the wheel… You only wish the rest of Atlanta ownership could follow their model and humility…
Ray
December 17th, 2011
7:40 pm
Someone tell DASG to go get Dwight Howard I’d at least have a bit more respect for them to just rent him out for a year.
I’m not a veteran blogger like some of you guys, but I know for sure that Josh Smith is probably the most respected hawks player for most fans. I do know that I don’t like Joe Johnson he’s got the skill, but marketable he is not.
drmaryb.[*_*].
December 17th, 2011
7:42 pm
CONCEPTUALZATI0N!
Hey Mr. Gearon, Jr!
Here’s an age old concept for you:
“Build It and They Will Come!” -arthur unknown-
jdewayneatl
December 17th, 2011
7:44 pm
The only thing that the Hawks could do to get some buzz around this team is to trade in the WORST FANS IN THE WORLD. The laughing stock in the league is no longer the players, coaches, management or owners, ITS THE SO-CALLED ATLANTA FANS.
Slimjr
December 17th, 2011
7:44 pm
Ray you may not like JOE Johnson, but he is by far the most skilled/talented player on this roster…
Could All NBA AL lead us to a playoff series? And win one? Crickets…………. yep……..
Cwebb
December 17th, 2011
7:45 pm
First of all, sorry for my english (I live in Paris but I’m a huge Hawks fan. Watch every single games at 1am !)
Could somebody explain me clearly why so many peope seem to hate our owners ?
I realize that it’s probably not the best team in the league but, given the history of the franchise, one would think the fan base should be pretty excited to be able to support a playoff basketball team.
I don’t really understand why the arena always is half empty.
jdewayneatl
December 17th, 2011
7:46 pm
“Taking risks that backfire is a hell of a lot better than sitting on your hands and blaming everyone else for taking you for granted, which is what Gearon and the DASG are doing. If they blow up the core for a year of Dwight and he leaves, they just blew up a core that the city didn’t care much about and that wasn’t going to seriously contend anyway. So what? At least you give the city one year of a superstar, and leave yourself a clean slate to build a better team in the long run. And if they blow up the core for a year of Dwight and he stays, they have just locked down the biggest superstar this franchise has had in 20 years, completely changed the perception of this organization, and set themselves up to achieve heights this franchise has never seen. That is a good gamble.”
Like I said, a whole bunch of hot air and poop. The only person that would be happy with that situation is @najehdavenpoop. Again the worst thing about this Hawks team is the WORST FANS IN THE WORLD.
Slimjr
December 17th, 2011
7:48 pm
Here’s a suggestion OLE DELUSIONAL ONE, put a call into Mr. Blanks office for some fine pointers on how to market to basketball fans in this region? Oh, like you really care…lol
Supes
December 17th, 2011
7:50 pm
Glad to see Najeh call it like it is…too many are simply blindly supporting…that kind of thinking gets you nowhere.
As a Thrashers fan…I will say this to Gearon Jr. and any other ASG owner…I will never set foot in PHILLIPS arena as long as you are still the PRINCIPLE owners of the Hawks. NEVER. Not even for concerts and or other performances. Your ineptitude cost us our hockey team…why should I support the one team you ACTUALLY cared about when the team I supported is now in fraking winnipeg?
Bluestreak
December 17th, 2011
7:51 pm
Ok, Gearon is either clueless or has finally lied to himself enough to believe this junk. The AJC columnists wouldn’t have to write a word. They completely pathetic management of the Thrashers showed they are not ownership material. Then they want to sell the Hawks, but no they never really wanted to sell the Hawks. They can’t even give a straight answer for that.
I had never heard they had dropped the Atlanta Spirit name, but a pile of poop by any other name still stinks.
Disgusted
December 17th, 2011
7:51 pm
After what these SOB’s did with the Thrashers I could care less what they do.
I never plan on spending a dime at that arena until these clowns are gone. They screwed us and they know it. They were so disingenuine about it.
What I loved is gone. So screw the ASG LLC. Still, I do wish the players and coaches well, just do not want to support this team under this ownership.
drmaryb.[*_*].
December 17th, 2011
7:52 pm
100M Team!
We all know the 100M team Mr. Gearon, Jr was referring to. How many championship banners do the Lakers have in their rafters? Nuff said.
If a 100M team doesn’t win, so what? At least they tried and they probably make 100M a week selling tickets, merchandise, food, parking, luxury boxes and from TV revenues.
They don’t hang banners for 2 round exits, sir. The only thing hanging from Phillips Arena rafters is cobb webs and a Nique HOF jersey. So, please stop looking around the league for a team worse than yours. Figure out how to be a champion instead.
Here’s a clue:
Etan Thomas
Jason Collins
Josh Powell
Damien Wilkins
Magnum Rolle
Kito Benson
ZaZa
Marvin
Hilton Armstrong
Et Al
Is not gonna’ get it done sir. Oooh … I’m gettimg warmed up, so I’m gonna’ step out to the club tonight and have some fun. Later cohorts.
Disgusted
December 17th, 2011
7:53 pm
I do believe they want to keep the Hawks and arena but never really wanted the Thrashers. And the lies upon lies in their mismanagemet of them is unconscionable.
Bad guys who got their way and what they wanted. Truth is the Hawks are a fairly good team.
Slimjr
December 17th, 2011
7:53 pm
“Could somebody explain me clearly why so many peope seem to hate our owners ?
Cause their from Paris? Just joking.lol. Go read Najeh, DMB, Grandad, Northcyde,and Grandmaster JeJe posts for some perspective. These folks lay it out there everyone to understand!
Ray
December 17th, 2011
7:56 pm
@ Slimjr
I’m not saying Joe don’t have the skills or talent, but when he got offered that contract I was one of the one’s screaming my head off for them to at least S&T to someone for a good bit back. I think he’s a good player, but just not my cup of tea if you will.
@jdywayneatl
Dude I doubt this is the worse fanbase ever in sports it’s not our fault for being mad at an ownership that thinks winning 2 playoff games in the second round against a basically inferior team is somehow improvement. I know the Chicago bulls had Rose, Noah, and a few other players, but still we had All NBA Al, Joe, and Josh C’mon man.
Also it’s not our fault being mad when ownership makes retarded moves like trading away 3 players and a draft pick(turned out to be a hometown product) for just one player and a bag of chips.
Najeh Davenpoop
December 17th, 2011
7:56 pm
“given the history of the franchise, one would think the fan base should be pretty excited to be able to support a playoff basketball team.”
This is probably what Gearon thinks too. The team used to suck balls, but now they at least manage to get into the playoffs, so everyone should support them unconditionally.
More than half the teams in the league make the playoffs every year. The ones who are serious about winning CHAMPIONSHIPS do not settle for that. They make moves to try to improve and break through to be among the league’s elite.
By the way, I hope you are not expecting Pape Sy to get too much playing time this year. Probably better that you don’t set yourself up for a letdown.
Grandad
December 17th, 2011
7:59 pm
Mary Ellen
As horrible as it is, Jeff Green’s illness put the Celts
on the 24 hour news cycle.
All other teams it seems use anything at their dispoal to
put their brand out in front of the public’s eye.
note – [I'm not saying the Celts are exploiting Jeff Green]
On the other hand;
the hawks seem to go out of their way to stay “out” of the public eye.
As some of us learned in Sunday school;
“they hide their light under a bushel”.
I’m not talkin’ about MC now.
They are never the subject of trade speculation or FA signings.
If they are – they keep it a secret.
Seems as if I’ve heard Sund say as much.
paraphrase – he doesn’t speculate in the media, or some such ?
Gearon wishes for this team to have a pulse’
yet, other than MC, what promotion is forthcoming.
Honestly, and agreeing with Najeh, we are the pulse.
Right here on Michael’s blog.
One other item;
the Hawks don’t even have any competition.
There is no collegiate basketball in the area competing for fans.
By that, I mean Tech, Uga, et al are not drawing fans away,
as college B-ball in the south is minute comparitive to it’s Big Brother fb.
Disgusted
December 17th, 2011
8:04 pm
Like him or not, we are stuck with Joe “I do not care if the fans show up” Johnson until 2017.
At least I am not paying his salary, its this group of clowns who overpaid for him not once but twice.
Good player yes, unlikable guy and unmarketable who is a piece of the puzzle, not a driver to a deep playoff run.
I will watch Versus and NHL Network before a Hawks game. I will check them out only if nothing else is on.
ryan
December 17th, 2011
8:05 pm
I just going to say its depressing being an Atlanta sports fan at least Author Blank does make moves Tony Gonzales and John Abraham and brought in Turner but the Hawks and Braves are pathetic with Liberty group and ASG worst owners in sports .
Rod from College Park
December 17th, 2011
8:06 pm
Great job Najeh!!!!!!!!!!! Great interview MC. First time we have seen an interview from one of the owners like this.
“‘You guys have done a hell of a job running that franchise because you are in a market that’s not a large revenue market, you’ve been competitive, you’ve kept your base players, you’ve been willing to pay Josh Smith 50-something million, Al Horford his $60 million, Joe Johnson his $100 million, Marvin his $40 million and so forth.”
There is no reason in the world that Atlanta should not be a large revenue market. MARVIN WILLIAMS SHOULD HAVE NEVER BEEN A BASE PLAYER. Any owner that is happy with the fact that he gave Marvin Williams 40 million dollars, after they had a chance to see him stumble and bumble around Phillips Arena for 3 years obviously knows little about basketball. The other owners are actually laughing at you guys for that. I know for a fact that other players in the league were laughing at you. I am Atlanta born and Atlanta bred, and never have I been impressed with just competing. Georgia probably puts out the best Athletes in the country behind Florida, Texas and California, and none of those athletes are happy with just competing. Our goal should be to win an NBA Championship, not get to the second round. Al, Josh, and Joe a’int getting no younger. That one stupid Marvin decision will probably keep this franchise from getting out of the second round, and possibly winning a championship.
Why Johnny can't read..
December 17th, 2011
8:06 pm
“But our goal is to be as competitive and entertaining as possible and it’s unrealistic to every year have the only measure of your success as winning a championship because one in 30 do it.”
Atl thats why there are so many Lakers, Celtics and Knicks fans in the city.
If your goal in life is just to show up, I think you are missing the point. The object is to win, not become complacent with mediocrity, no offense Al Horford, but if the shoe fits…
Kind of reminds me of that sickening post on the last blog where “dumb and dumber” were cosigning each other for having a goal of finishing 3rd.
Why do they have the big dance any way?
Might as well getcha fishing poles out, its going to be short summer, again.
Why Johnny can't read..
December 17th, 2011
8:08 pm
Rod from College Park Im quite sure Josh makes more than Al. Believe that!
northcyde
December 17th, 2011
8:09 pm
Thank you Najeh and drmaryb for saving me from doing a whole lot of typing . . even though I like to type. Both of you hit on all of the right points. This interview literally made my head hurt.
Gearon . . let me tell you something man. I’m one of those die hard fans you talk about. I drive 300 miles to the games at least 5 times a year minimum. I’ve made at least one playoff game every season.
But it comes to point when you as an ownership group have to decide what you want to go to that next level. And to do that, you may have to make 2 tough decisions
- Get that player and go into the Luxury Tax
- trade one or two of our core players in order to improve the team
But to me, you confirmed what I said earlier in the week. You guys are simply SCARED to make a damn move . . a significant move to improve the team.
You’re waiting on our core to improve enough to bail you out, when in fact, these guys may simply be as good as they’re going to get. And if that’s so, what do you do then?
See . . when you have trade exceptions that you don’t use . . trade off young draft picks for money . . trade off other players just so you won’t have to pay the tax . . don’t hire experienced veteran coaches to run the team . . don’t sit there and act like that you’re doing all that you can to get us to that next level.
Ish . . let’s just run down what you guys have done in the past 18 months
- Hired :Larry Drew, instead of a proven name coach like Avery Johnson. A coach that basketball fans would’ve been familiar with and had people come out to see the Hawks.
- Made a great trade of the 24th pick for the 27th and 31st pick, only to SELL the 31st pick for money.
- signed 3 bottom of the barrel big men ( Powell, Thomas, and Collins ), with only Collins paying some dividends by guarding Dwight . . and he didn’t stop him one bit, he simply made things tough for him
- had a MLE that you could’ve thrown out there to use on someone, possibly even Shaquille O’Neal, but refused to do it because you didn’t want to go into the precious Luxury Tax. Forget the fact that Shaq was STILL a box office attraction that would’ve made you guys a ton of money. You were either SCARED to pull the trigger, or you simply didn’t want to do it.
( Meanwhile . . Horford is STILL begging for a center to play with )
- as MC alluded to, you had a chance to trade Jamal Crawford for a guy that we could’ve really used . . not after the season was over . . but at the trade deadline ( when things started falling apart with the Philadelphia blowout in early Feb ). Instead, you trade Bibby to keep from paying the tax, along with Evans, Jordan Crawford ( the guy that should be taking over jamal’s “off the bench gunner” spot ), AND the 2011 1st round pick . . for Hinrich.
Sorry Gearon . . the problem is that you’re guys are simply content on seeing this team put up a good record and make the playoffs. But you’re not willing to go the extra mile.
Larry Drew supposedly has a “No Excuses” message in the locker room. But this entire interview is filled with excuses for why you and the Hawks can’t receive respect or can’t get to a championship level.
No . . instead of YOU taking the responsibility, you’re passing the buck onto the media, the fans, and the players not getting to the next level, as to why fan and media apathy is so high these days.
Damn . . and I still typed a lot. And could type a lot more if I wanted to.
Gearon, the next time you talk to MC, tell him that you’re doing everything possible to bring a championship to Atlanta. I mean damn . . even Alex Meruelo told us that, and he didn’t even officially own the dang team yet.
But if you say it . . you better mean it.
But if all you’re trying to do is put an entertaining product on the floor, you might as well hire the ladies of Magic City and Cheetah to replace the A-Town dancers. I bet that will bring the casual fan out.
Grandad
December 17th, 2011
8:13 pm
Hawks Fan
You don’t know me.
I’ll give you that.
But I’d tell him [Gearon] and I’ll tell you to your face as well,
whatever I feel like sayin’.
Now that we’ve been introduced, don’t be makin’ statements
when you don’t know what or who your talkin’ about.
I don’t cow-tow to nobody, no-time, no-place.
It’s been very nice gaining your aquaintance, my good fellow.
IDTSFN
Big Ray
December 17th, 2011
8:17 pm
And I look at things where people say, ‘Oh, well, the Hawks owners are cheap.’ That’s something I hear constantly whether it’s written or radio guys. Yet when you look at the facts . . . This year we will probably have one of the top 5 payrolls in the NBA. It will be right around $70 [million], I will tell you if we are at the trade deadline and we feel like we are missing that piece, that we will think will take us over the top, [we will pay the tax]. . . .
You look at the Hawks, if you look at our payroll vs. the Falcons—I don’t want to crap on the Falcons in the paper but everybody acts like Falcons do whatever it takes to win—their payroll the last three, four years as been the lower in the league. They were 25th in 08-09, 26th in 09-10, 26th in 2010-11. Now let’s contrast that with us. 2010-11 we were ninth; 2009-10 we were 21st. This year we will probably be fifth. What I struggle with is when the facts don’t support the [neagtive] view.
Good thing I don’t have a blog this season….I could spend 25 paragraphs explaining how incredibly myopi this is…and that’s just off the top of my head….
1) I couldn’t think of a better way to show just how badly run one franchise is versus how well run the other is. Falcons continue to win/make the playoffs despite having a lower budget. Hawks continue to do the same despite having a high budget. You essentially just said the Falcons know how to do what you want to do, and do it in style.
2) You just put yourself in a category with the NY Knicks – i.e., spends money but spends it all the wrong ways. Difference is that the Knicks have had far more problems with finding the right guy until recently, and had some of the worst coach/GM combos in a long while. Yet still…..players want to go there. How scary is that?
3) I love a guy who says the papers and columnists are factually incorrect. Really? Prove it! Archive the incorrect reports, and show us where they went wrong. I’d love to see that. But you can’t. Because in the end, the ASG, or whatever the heck they call themselves these days (seven dwarves will do) are the REAL LIARS.
Ray
December 17th, 2011
8:18 pm
@ northcyde
Wow man I’m speechless(not being sarcastic) that pretty much sums up a lot of problems I also have.
Why Johnny can't read..
December 17th, 2011
8:20 pm
“How do you grow [revenue]? By getting to the fai-rweather fan and [make him] realize, one, we care, two we are willing to spend money and three look at our success”
Gearon, I agree, now, can you point out the successes you are referring too? I must have missed the championship trophies on my way in to the Phillips. Did I miss something? I was looking up at the rafters but I must have been sitting in the wrong seats because I did not see any championship banners.
Lets see, fair-weather fan…. lets see, pay my house note or buy season tickets to all of the success Gearon is bragging about…
Gearon do you take Food Stamps?
Big Ray
December 17th, 2011
8:21 pm
MEANWHILE…..
Najeh Davenpoop has been ON FIRE.
And Northcyde epitomizes the betrayed fan who makes the real effort.
You know what the difference is between somebody like Northcyde and Mike Gearon? Really simple – money. Both are basketball fans, but one has enough money and enough partners (with rich dads….ahem…Turner) to be an NBA owner.
OH yeah, another difference – Gearon is a STUPID fan. He doesn’t have the sense to hire a REAL pro (GM), and LET HIM DO HIS JOB.
ASG = when stupid rich fans get to have professional sports franchises.
Grandmaster JeJe
December 17th, 2011
8:21 pm
“But our goal is to be as competitive and entertaining as possible and it’s unrealistic to every year have the only measure of your success as winning a championship because one in 30 do it.”
HAS WINNING A RING NOT BEEN A GOAL OF THIS FRANCHISE THEN? IF SO PLEASE TELL ME AND ILL BE HAPPY TO DONATE ALL MY G-DAMN HAWKS MEMORABILIA TO CHARITY.
I HATE ASG OR WHATEVER U GUYS CALL YOURSELVES
THE DEFINITION OF INSANITY IS DOING THE SAME THING OVER AND OVER AND EXPECTING DIFFERENT RESULTS
Grandmaster JeJe
December 17th, 2011
8:23 pm
HOW ARE NORTHCYDE AND NAJEH GETTING ALL THE PROPS? THE ISH I WROTE IS JUST AS GOOD AND I WAS FIRST
Ray
December 17th, 2011
8:24 pm
Just like with the use to be Thrashers we would care if you guys are willing to spend and make a title contending team.
You guys fire Mike Woodson and bring in someone who is an underling vs. like northcyde said some proven HC’s.
Plus we keep sticking with this same core of guys who is the core I honestly don’t know anymore some people have overstayed their welcome in my book. Marvin is one of them and Joe being the second because he doesn’t actually care about being anything to the city of Atlanta only his money and that’s it.
Grandmaster JeJe
December 17th, 2011
8:25 pm
LOL good point Big Ray. We spend far more and barely get diff results
Gearon
December 17th, 2011
8:26 pm
You know what Atlanta hawks fans, guess what time it is….
Where Flava Fla or Morris Day and the Time?
Do you guys really want to know what time it is?
Its middle finger time
F.U.Hawks Fans!!
northcyde
December 17th, 2011
8:33 pm
And another thing Gearon.
Maybe the reason why JJ hasn’t said more than 50 words to you, is because the Hawks have NEVER promoted him as the face of the franchise. It’s been more about Josh Smith than Joe Johnson. Even the nickname “The Highlight Factory”, has more to do with Josh than it does Joe.
Problem is though, you don’t even promote Josh as much as you should.
And it’s amazing that the Hawks are in a city that is the new epicenter of hip-hop and R&B music . . and also the Eastern home of “Black Hollywood” . . yet . . you can’t seem to form a relationship with NONE of these famous people in order to hype up the Hawks to the “casual fan”.
You simply don’t understand the ATL demographic. Which is why you even bring in a broke down Shaquille O’Neal to the team ( even if you had to overpay him for a year ). You could’ve paid that dude, and made money on the back end by plastering his face everywhere concerning the Hawks. JJ and Josh and Al may not have liked that, but at least you would’ve made money.
OH . . and THANK YOU for finally upgrading to a radio station that can be heard 30 miles outside of ATL at nighttime. Maybe that has something to do with fan apathy as well.
Like drmaryb said . . just a failure of Marketing 101.
Macaroni Tony
December 17th, 2011
8:37 pm
Aaron Brooks is a (fa) i wonder why we don’t pick him up?
Slimjr
December 17th, 2011
8:39 pm
Sund=Puppet
Gearon”OLE Delusional ONE”= Puppet Master
Slimjr
December 17th, 2011
8:41 pm
Round 1 :
Jeff Schultz :1 Puppet Master: 0
Ray
December 17th, 2011
8:41 pm
Sund may be a puppet, but I wouldn’t let him near my team if I owned one which I don’t want to.
Slimjr
December 17th, 2011
8:43 pm
I second that Ray.^^^^^^^^^^^^^lol
Ray
December 17th, 2011
8:46 pm
I sort of kind of feel hurt by that post for some reason Slimjr
What you don’t think I’d be a good owner? T_T Lol.
sports fan
December 17th, 2011
8:46 pm
As long as Atlanta Spirit Group has anything to do with the Hawks and Philips Arena I will be boycotting. They are the worst ownership group in the history of sports. Look what they did to the Thrashers. Within a matter of a few months the team was up for sale and then relocated because no local owner was able to come forward in time. In reality it takes about 2 years to procure the sale of a professional sports team locally. These guys were only out to make a profit and didn’t care about the city. Why should we care about them?
Spudd Webb
December 17th, 2011
8:48 pm
northcyde with all due respect the highlight factory was an ode to Niq and our squad. We put that there with Nique being the human highlight film. I know where you are coming from but Josh earned them stripes and emulated Nique. If JJ wanted to have that kind of aura he should do more like what he did to boston when I think it was Ricky Pierce was trying to guard him and JJ put that move and broke Ricky’s ankle, then step back and buried a three and exclamated with his touch hand. But we dont see that side of JJ, and you cant blame that on Gearon, or Josh. Thats a man in the mirror type thingy….
Here’s the piece in reference. and the video of the same name.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kKsCiiAMESM
JaeEvolution
December 17th, 2011
8:49 pm
That one guy is looking like a prophet right now, Jon Leuer is beasting for the Bucks…
Slimjr
December 17th, 2011
8:51 pm
@Ray…..HaHaHa..
ntrigue
December 17th, 2011
8:52 pm
He made good points bottomline we will be better with Teague finally starting! If Hawks wasn’t always playing in an empty building they would do better at home they feed off the fans energy! That why they always play good at home during the playoffs! The Hawks will surprise a lot of yall this yr watch!
Slimjr
December 17th, 2011
8:52 pm
Jon Leuer got skills!!!!!!!!!!! and hes 7′0″?
Ray
December 17th, 2011
8:55 pm
@ ntrigue
Man you sound like a fellow I’ve heard before I can’t think of his name…………….
@ Slimjr
I wouldn’t want to be the owner for this team I know I’d put them in a worse position then they are now lol. I at least would take some calculated risks though something that this group can’t even try to do.
Blast
December 17th, 2011
8:57 pm
Hawks fans. Wow! Lots of good stuff tonight. Love Najeh’s breakdown, Northcyde did his thing, and Ray chipped in. But you’all missing the point, or maybe getting it. Hawks might have a high payroll, but those monies have not been invested wisely. We all know that. Don’t know if Gearon knows that too, but regardless of any other bullsh!t he said, what caught me most was at the top of the interview.
‘This is a make or break season for the Hawks.’
Which tells me what I expected all along. They kept the core for another season, added Tracy and maybe Stack, if the Hawks don’t break out of the second round this season, I expect the core to be broken up, and maybe a rebuilding process started, no matter who the owner is.
So Hawks fans, y’all chill. If you lived through a 13 game season, you can surely live through a finally competitive 2nd round season with your point guard out injured. Imagine what it would be like having Teague and a healthy Hinrich as your point guards. Perimeter defence! If Joe happens to have a great year, Hawks might just have the best season ever!
Lest see how the season plays out before we pass judgment!
Slimjr
December 17th, 2011
8:59 pm
Firstrowsports dot tv is streaming the Bucks game if your interested……
Slimjr
December 17th, 2011
9:05 pm
“This is a make or break season for the Hawks.”
What concerns the the fan base is can the Master puppet/puppet tear down this core without screwing up the franchise for the next 10 years???
Now that’s the 64 billion dollar question.. They have a track record ya know?
Sweet Vengence
December 17th, 2011
9:06 pm
In the testimony, Paterno said he “knew inappropriate action was taken by Jerry Sandusky with a youngster” after a meeting with then-graduate assistant Mike McQueary, who allegedly saw Sandusky sexually abusing a boy in a locker room shower the previous night, but did not inform police and waited at least a day to inform his boss, athletic director Tim Curley, because he “didn’t want to interfere with their weekends.
Astro Joe
December 17th, 2011
9:07 pm
Maybe now folk will stop asking “isn’t the goal to win a title?” You all can put that in the same category as asking a politician, “isn’t the goal to serve your constituents?”
And now that some of you all have been officialy told that there is no Tooth Fairy, Santa Claus or Easter Bunny, you can just enjoy this team for pure entertainment value, much like you would the Bourne series of movies.
Ray
December 17th, 2011
9:08 pm
@ Blast
That’s one of my major problems with DASG it were up to me I wouldn’t let them or Sund near the breaking up or rebuilding process of the whole thing.
One thing I notice about a good bit of posters is they have mixed feelings who should be let go. Like me I say keep J-smoove and let go of JJ and Marvin a few others, but others are opposite and say J-smoove instead.
That’s the biggest problem we have right now unlike many teams we’ve had this base together almost some 5 years and counting(more for others) and it’s creating that problem where the ownership is in a lose lose situation even if they win(which I honestly don’t care I hope they go down in flames lol). Cause if they trade away J-smoove everyone hates them or if they trade away All NBA Al everyone hates them same for JJ.
This is where I feel sorry for players like Teague because he’s usually one of those players that suffer because of these type of things kind of like what happened with Jordan Crawford.
JSS
December 17th, 2011
9:09 pm
There’s a difference between being the most insincere ownership group and being the worst ownership in the sports… Ask anybody who lived through Calvin Griffith in DC, Georgia Frontiere in the last decade in L.A., the Maloofs, and our departed Smiths (AKA the Clampetts)…
northcyde
December 17th, 2011
9:10 pm
And Big Ray . . the thing about me is that I was one of the few fans that actually DEFENDED these dudes up until last summer.
Last summer showed me that they’re not willing to do what it takes to get us to that next level. This ownership group, other than re-signing JJ, did the absolute minimum. I guess they thought that they were completely done after they re-signed JJ.
The JJ signing simply made sure that we weren’t going to fall out of playoff level. But the rest of the team still needed upgrading. The coach needed upgrading. And they failed to do it in a year in which the East was in a nuclear arms race to get better.
Our only hope is that JJ and Josh and Al do it, because this ownership group sure in the hell isn’t going to do it. The tax is their excuse for not advancing us.
Rev in Tampa
December 17th, 2011
9:10 pm
” think the way we beat them up caused them to lose to Miami. I really do.”
I don’t think JC1 stepping on Rose’s foot at the end of the game constitutes beating them up. LOL
Slimjr
December 17th, 2011
9:12 pm
Astro Joe, this NBA streaming will come in handy on some of those Hawks nights that aren’t entertaining….
Sorry Gearon, your plan wont fly with me….
northcyde
December 17th, 2011
9:18 pm
Ray . . it’s really about what player would be more easy to trade to get a piece that would improve the team, than anything else.
JJ’s contract almost makes him untradeable, unless the Hawks were willing to take a bunch of draft picks and expiring contracts for him. But he’s not the issue here. We all know what the issue with this team is.
We don’t have a true center or low post scorer/defender. And we don’t have a superstar.
Our two big guys need another big guy to play with them, in order for that guy to be the center and to provide low post scoring.
So if we can’t trade JJ to get that type of player, it has to come down to Smith or Horford. They’re the type of young players that are attractive to other teams. When you have guys ( possible future Hall of Famers ) like Paul and Howard out on the market, and you don’t even TRY to make a play for those dudes, in fear of “upsetting a player”, then how are you going to attract the type of player that we need?
You can’t.
Rev in Tampa
December 17th, 2011
9:18 pm
“When we bought the team, we were the first NBA team to say we are going to scrap it and build through the draft. We are going to be patient about it and we are going to try to build assets and then trade selectively when we felt like the right piece was there. Ironically, when you look around the league, that’s the Oklahoma City model. That was the Portland model. That was the L.A. Clippers’ model until they did the Chris Paul deal. A lot of teams adopted that thinking that’s the right strategy.”
Michael Gearon, Jr. – NBA pacesetter
JSS
December 17th, 2011
9:22 pm
@ Big Ray…
So are you officially walking away from the Fan Blog Moderator gig? Or what exactly are their plans (after roll-out the new commenting guidelines next month)? Any idea?
drmaryb.[*_*].
December 17th, 2011
9:27 pm
Comparables!
One more thing Mr. Gearon, JR. You couldn’t sniff and hold mr. Blanks jock strap when it comes to being a competent owner. He writes BLANK checks over there.
Mr. Blank gave Dimitroff the keys to the Bentley and got out of the way. He is a true Falcons fan not an impedance to his teams success .
The NFL works under a hard cap, so don’t compare how much money Arthur is spending to a NBA team. Those salaries are not guaranteed and they can immediately get rid of their dead weights like Marvin Williams.
Dimitroff has to evaluate some 66 players and pare it down to 53 players, and you can’t even decide on 13 or 15 players?
The NFL only plays 16 regular season games – you sir play 82. The NFL has a 1 play off game series – The NBA is a best of 7!
_____________
So just stop it with the irrelevant comparisons to the falcons. Don’t you know football and the SECOND rules The South! Where do these idiot owners come from?
They don’t even know the dynamics and nuances of their own sport.
northcyde
December 17th, 2011
9:28 pm
And let me address this quote . .
(( Gearon; “I will tell you if we are at the trade deadline and we feel like we are missing that piece, that we will think will take us over the top, [we will pay the tax]. . . .” ))
NO Gearon . . . the issue is . . will you trade a player ( possibly a key player ) . . in order to take us over the top? Cause it;s not like there’s going to be some free agent laying out there in February that we can pick up, that is going to be the difference in us possibly going to the NBA Finals or not.
Hinrich, like Jamal last year, represents a MAJOR trade chip for possibly a disgruntled, but very good player that may have a few years left on his contract. So the question is . . will you make a move for a guy like that at the trade deadline?
If Portland is struggling, and Marvin is still having consistency problems, would you trade Hinrich for a guy like Gerald Wallace, in order to improve the team? Because the fact is that nobody may want Marvin or Zaza or any other scrub with years left on his contract. But they may want Hinrich, and his expiring 8 million deal.
Trading for Wallace and his 10.65 million this season, would mean that you may have to pay a little tax this year, but possibly be on the hook next year for 11.44 million next year ( if he accepts his player option ). And that would mean that the Hawks would have 71 million in salary committed to 7 players going into 2012. And that would automatically put us in the Luxury Tax in 2012, unless you amnesty somebody ( which you’ll probably do to keep from paying the tax ), even if it took a useful player from us.
Would you do that Gearon? Would you go that extra mile and put this lineup on the floor . .
PG – Teague
G – Johnson
F – Wallace
PF – Smith
C – Horford
Plus we’d still have Marvin to come off the bench. ( at least for this year )
Would you do that Gearon, if that were available? Because it’s not like it’s going to be a superstar available at the trade deadline.
Time to put up or just hush. This is your LEGACY as an owner we’re talking about here. This “Core” may have only 2 years to get it done, before Smith leaves us or JJ goes into decline. So it’s not like you have a lot of time to evaluate this “Core” for much longer.
If you scared, say you scared.
Joe.Jeff.Smith.Leuer.Bogut
December 17th, 2011
9:37 pm
Wallace and Smith? and Horford
um ok. Are we playing 3 in 2 out?
As a Lakers KCAL9 constituent I can say you are still thinking “small”.
JT's Hoops Blog
December 17th, 2011
9:38 pm
The Hawks are only going to go so far. That 44-38 record showed that their time is all about up. Beating the magic just extended the life span of this house of cards. The team has stayed as a fringe playoff team for so long. Sooner or later they are going to crash and burn.
drmaryb.[*_*].
December 17th, 2011
9:42 pm
Word Pressed!
*Don’t you know football and the S E C rules The South! Where do these idiot owners come from?
brigadierjerry
December 17th, 2011
9:43 pm
Nothing really more to say other than what most have said on this blog. There is a reason there are Lakers Knicks Bulls fans when they play in the Phillips arena. Those fans have more faith in their teams will get it together even when they are having down years because they will at least try. It may not work but it is better to run out of gas trying rather than to not be noticed at all.
If you really think about it, the Hawks have not had a star player that fans will go to the arena to see other than Nique and those Nique teams had good complimentary players so that they made a decent run and you believed as a fan they had a chance to compete and win a title. Obviously it never happend but it wasnt that the ownership wasnt trying.
This interview sounded as if something Donald Sterling who owns the Clippers would say or would think. Come to think of it I dont see a difference between owners. The sad thing is you would almost need a scandal like Isiah Thomas had with the Knicks for the NBA to come in and saw we need to get rid of this guy and hire competent people.
Maryb, northclyde, grandad, Najeh and the rest pretty summed up what I felt. Ownership wants to stay staus quo and wont take chances.
If the Hawks were marketed and promoted right and had a star player Hawks would have a very strong fanbase and people would be made aware of them. There are smaller NBA market teams that are more recognized than the Hawks and that is sad.
Truth B Told
December 17th, 2011
9:48 pm
So are you officially walking away from the Fan Blog Moderator gig? Or what exactly are their plans (after roll-out the new commenting guidelines next month)? Any idea?
Naw. This is all he has left, being the thought police on this blog page. They shut down his blog page for unsubstantiated subject content,
But he still holds a weekly devotional to Al Horford at his temple on peach tree, Sundays.
Public is invited.
Joe.Jeff.Smith.Leuer.Bogut
December 17th, 2011
9:49 pm
When Joe is doubled you want a guy who can shoot out there. Not Gerald Wallace/Josh Smith. Not Horford.
Hawks fans would sink this ship. At very best they’d rent Dwight for one year and become the Atlanta Magic.
Smith + perimeter shooter (Vlad-tax strapped) + center (Horford)
must become
Smith + perimeter shooter (Leuer) + center (Bogut)
bigdave
December 17th, 2011
9:50 pm
well.. i have to say i appreciate his candidness and willingness to address certain issues. hard for me to find fault with that. when your objective is to remain (competitive) with an entertaining product, ill say they’ve done that. we should start to digest that. championships arent the goal of this administration.
his premise seems to be centered around fan base/perception. he needs to realize that basketball is a niche sport.. ok. you cant compete with pastime (baseball) and religion (football) especially in this part of the country.. going after Gearon is a beast with the facts though.. however, put them in a trivial board game. especially when trying to use them to pacify and camouflage a less than par management of talent and opportunities to improve this team via draft or F/A. i agree with him on all counts in regards to Joe. if you wanna make a splash in this town, you’re going to have to do it with an exceptional talent/personality.. until then, expect the “unfairness” to continue.
oh yea.. please believe the team is still for sale. just like they werent this summer right.. next thing we know the pizza man was at the door..
Joe.Jeff.Smith.Leuer.Bogut
December 17th, 2011
9:53 pm
If Hinrich were healthy we’d play him regardless of dwindling athleticism, and make Teague a SG, hindering his development and our own defense. And risking injury, with Teague.
northcyde
December 17th, 2011
9:55 pm
@ Joe.Jeff . . . I”m just being realistic.
We’re not getting Andrew Bynum in a trade. We MIGHT get Dwight Howard in a trade, if we were willing to give up both Smith and Horford ( which I would do for one year of Howard ), then use Hinrich to upgrade the frontline if need be.
The fact is that if you added a guy like Gerald Wallace to this squad, you’d now have a player that would be willing to do some of the dirty work that Smith and Horford doesn’t want to do on the boards. Then you could move Marvin to the 6th man role.
Regardless of the kind of trade they make, it has to be a trade for a starter quality player that can immediately help us. if they trade for a significant player, they have to break up “the core”.
I just want to know if they would do it or not?
Minnesota up by 14 going into the 4th quarter over Milwaukee. Derrick Williams looks really good, as well as Rubio. Rubio can really pass the ball. Almost Steve Nash like. Kevin Love is even a monster in preseason ( 21 pts – 15 rebs in 27 minutes )
And Joe.Jeff’s boy . . Jon Leuer . . is straight up balling.
Joe.Jeff.Smith.Leuer.Bogut
December 17th, 2011
9:56 pm
Play Smith and Bogut inside and surround them with shooters.
Hey Thabeet just used the Jason Collins move facefronted his own man to free up T-Will who beat his man on a stop and pop.
Playing with 4 fouls. Oh Bad Hands Turnover
Dawg
December 17th, 2011
9:59 pm
The Hawks have the most disfunctional ownership and management in the NBA. That is the reason. There are plenty of fans, there is just horrible people running the team. They couldn’t have done a worse job at the whole rebuilding process.
Angus
December 17th, 2011
9:59 pm
Gearon needs to spend some time here – http://espn.go.com/nba/story/_/id/7116977/nba-player-rankings-1
The NBA is a star league and we don’t have any.
ryan
December 17th, 2011
10:01 pm
Are Gearon and Stern related .
Grandmaster JeJe
December 17th, 2011
10:01 pm
Hawks. It’s not the Dallas Mavericks, it’s not the Miami Heat, it’s not the New York Knicks, it’s not the Oklahoma City Thunder, it’s not the Orlando Magic
THE MAVS WON A RING.
THE MAGIC WENT TO THE FINALS. THE HEAT WENT TO THE FINALS THE FIRST YEAR WITH THEIR CORE. THE KNICKS MADE THE PLAYOFFS THIS YEAR WI A COMPLETELY NEW IMPROMPTU ROSTER WHEREAS IT TOOK PIECES OF OUR CORE THREE OR SO YEARS
YOU ARE SUCH A DELUSIONAL IDIOTIC ARROGANT OWNER. HOW ARE YOU SO WRONG ON EVERY ISSUE? SELL THE TEAM ALREADY. NOT ONE PERSON IN THE ATL WANTS YOU AS AN OWNER BESIDES MAYBE YOUR FAmily
Joe.Jeff.Smith.Leuer.Bogut
December 17th, 2011
10:03 pm
What are you f***ng kidding me. Leuer is stateside?
via Google search:
“Jon Leuer- now on TV
Picked it up a few minutes ago and Jon scored seven points in a short span. He looks good offensively and blocking out. A bit slow on defense for this level but help defense helped him and he gives help too. Playing Smart.”
Bogut-Howard-Bynum trades have been proposed. Where’s Horford in these trades
Oh so now Bogut and Leuer is not REALISTIC? LOL. Now we need to give up picks for 1 armed Bogut and Leuer who was unknown outside of me doing some BASIC research on this blog.
FU Gearon Marvin is not getting better. I’ll be damned if tweener undersized PF oversized klutz SF Marvin is ever is better than a 7′0 shooter on Team USA with a balanced 7′0 wingspan
7′0 wingspan =
Chris Kaman, Jon Leuer, Josh Smith, Carmelo Anthony, David Lee, Paul Pierce, Vince Carter
Grandmaster JeJe
December 17th, 2011
10:04 pm
GTFOH WITH GERALD WALLACE TAlk. WE DONT EVEN HAVE A BACKUP PG AND U WANT SOME INJURY PRONE JOSH S,ITH CLONE WHO ANT HIT A JUMPSHOT. TRADE HINRICH FOR A MEDIOCRE CENTER? THE SALARIES DONT EVEN MATCH UP. 11M PLAYER OPTION FOR NEXT YEAR
AMNESTY ASG
Grandmaster JeJe
December 17th, 2011
10:05 pm
SORRY ABOUT TYPOS. IM ON MY IPAD.
FIRE WOODY
Neki
December 17th, 2011
10:07 pm
First of all, MC and Tim, y’all did a great job on this piece. I am seriously hoping that Gearon is reading this because I am going to drop the truth on him.
First of all, the goal for any NBA team is to win the NBA Championship and nothing else. I understand that “our goal is to be as competitive and entertaining as possible” but NBA Championship is first and foremost.
Second, the reason why the Falcons is much better than Hawks because they take chances and marketing/promoted so much better.
They don’t take any chances and they want to blame local media, former players and fans because nobody give them a chance. I think that ESPN say this perfect. That the Atlanta Hawks is a team that you just can’t trust at all.
drmaryb.[*_*].
December 17th, 2011
10:09 pm
Riled Up!
All Mr. Gearon, JR did was step on Arthur Blanks toes and riled up what little fan base he has left.
The casual fans of Atlanta obviously have better things to do with their time and money. They are not walking through that door to see “Ground Hog Day” and a bunch of filler on the bench with long faces.
So, I hope the ASKG has a plan B to line their pockets beside opening a 2M$ steak house named “RED” inside Phillips Arena.
How about opening a can of whup-azz instead and pick up the phone – see IF you can go get Dwight in here?
At least try – that would be a start. Blow it up! What has changed since the last round 2 exit to make you think you will contend for a title?
T-Mac
Stack
Kito
Pep-Si
Magnum Rolle
Undrafted PG
Is that the over the hump difference now?
northcyde
December 17th, 2011
10:09 pm
Gerald Wallace would give this team a defensive presence out on the floor. Defense can create offense. Plus he’s a slasher that can score around the rim. Wallace would give us another defender to throw up against Lebron in the playoffs.
Joe.Jeff . . . there are two sides of the ball. I’d much rather be a solid defensive team, than a solid offensive team. In this preseason game, Leuer is having no problem scoring when he’s wide open, but Derrick Williams is eating him alive.
Leuer is lost on defense . . but he can score the basketball, no doubt on that. He’s the best offensive player on Milwaukee’s squad tonight.
northcyde
December 17th, 2011
10:12 pm
JeJe . . Hinrich for Wallace works.
But it don;t have to be for Wallace. Just for a player who is of starter quality and can make an impact on the team more than Hinrich could. Last year, I would’ve traded Jamal for Sam Dalembert.
That type of player may not be available come the trade deadline, so if he have a shot to improve the team, you make a deal for whomever. And if you got a chance for a blockbuster trade, you don’t hesitate to do it.
northcyde
December 17th, 2011
10:13 pm
@ drmaryb . . . i guess that’s what that draft pick that they sold for 3 million last summer, paid for . . . their restaurant.
Grandmaster JeJe
December 17th, 2011
10:18 pm
Dalembert is a nice player. How are he and DeShawn still unsigned?
Grandmaster JeJe
December 17th, 2011
10:24 pm
“Rick Sund is in the final year of his contract. How do you evaluate his performance? Are you discussing a contract extension with him?
To take a page out of Rick’s book, we won’t discuss extensions with guys until the end of the year. I like the job Rick has done. I like the job Larry [Drew] has done. Larry got us past Orlando. I thought he outcoached [Stan] Van Gundy. I thought he outcoached [Tom] Thibodeau but they had a hell of a team. What people don’t even realize, I don’t think the oddsmakers had us winning one playoff game out of 12 and we beat Orlando and took Chicago to six. I don’t think [the oddsmakers] were right and the record shows they are wrong but that was the perception. That playoff series, and knowing what Teague can do and putting Hinrich in there, I think we win one of those games and the defensive energy overall would be better. That’s not Jamal’s strength.”
Read the Q and the A. All he had was 7 words to say about Sund
Grandmaster JeJe
December 17th, 2011
10:26 pm
We made it out of the first rd three yrs in a row. Dallas hasnt. Are we better than Dallas?
Head in sand
December 17th, 2011
10:28 pm
Hopefully Gearon is reading these blogs. You can change the name but Atlanta knows and remembers what you and your investors did to this city. You would be hard pressed to find such hatred for any ownership of any team in any city. Do us all a favor and sell the team so we may then support it.
Grandmaster JeJe
December 17th, 2011
10:30 pm
He’ll play until he’s 36 because Joe is not dependent on his athleticism like a Kobe, like a Dominique, like a Jordan
Kobe came into the league at 17 and will play til he is 37+ so STDU and GTFOATL
SMGDMFH
Rod from College Park
December 17th, 2011
10:35 pm
“We gave Marvin Williams 40 million…….” LOL
ryan
December 17th, 2011
10:38 pm
I was trying to say earlier that if we have no shot at Howard i would take Gerald Wallace or Okafor may not be superstars but i would take those guys in a heartbeat .
Grandmaster JeJe
December 17th, 2011
10:39 pm
If u read carefully, all ASG and Sund EVER do is throw out numbers. No dedication to a ring. They likely are not even breaking even right now
Grandmaster JeJe
December 17th, 2011
10:41 pm
Why not offer for Kaman? Z and Kirk. Nice trade for both sides. Northcyde, what you think? We cut 4m in salary for next year
Q
December 17th, 2011
10:42 pm
Gearon = Mother-effin’ a$$hole
won’t step foot again in Philips ever again for what he did to my hockey team
Burn in hell…..hope you lose your shirt and end up homeless!!
NBA sucks anyway…
Hawks Fan
December 17th, 2011
10:49 pm
I respect you now Grandad, thank you for your comment.
But how come all of these comments are negative? I understand you guys all have problems with the Hawks, but can’t you guys say some good things about them as well as the bad. I mean basically all these comments are bad, and frankly I don’t understand it.
Can you give me an explanation why you have some many problems, and not any happy thoughts?
JSS
December 17th, 2011
10:49 pm
I knew Rod from College Park would make my night!
Rod from College Park
December 17th, 2011
10:55 pm
Hawks Fan,
We drafted Marvin Williams instead of Chris Paul or Derron Williams. That explains everything. Then we turned around and gave him 40 million after we knew we made a huge mistake. There is your explanation.
Rick Sund
December 17th, 2011
10:56 pm
This is why my GREAT BOSS Gearon hired me because like me he sees the UPSIDE of this team. I mean did you hear the point he made about us being ONE OF THREE TEAMS to MAKE IT TO THE SECOND ROUND. You see we are not about WINNING CHAMPIONSHIPS, just as Boss Gearon says, we are about BEING COMPETITIVE and ENTERTAINING. You people EXPECT TOO MUCH. There is nothing wrong with being ONE OF SIXTEEN TEAMS to MAKE THE PLAYOFFS. That is OUR STANDARD.
JSS
December 17th, 2011
10:58 pm
Don’t make wise moves in the NBA, the system will kill you…
Compound unwise moves in the NBA, the system will kill you for multiple years…
Refuse to address glaring problems or issues, alienate your most ardent fan base…
Go out of your way to create breech between factions of Atlanta ticket buying community, watch the whole go to heck…
Say that you’re obvious to the backlash… That’s DASG!
Rod from College Park
December 17th, 2011
10:59 pm
Hawks Fan,
Our last two coaches names have been Woody and LD. Do those two names make you think championship?
drmaryb.[*_*].
December 17th, 2011
11:03 pm
Gag Me!
“@ drmaryb . . . i guess that’s what that draft pick that they sold for 3 million last summer, paid for . . . their restaurant.” -northcyde-
__________
“Gag me with a $80 steak!”
Northcyde – I just love you man! Don’t hurt your fingers on that keyboard … We have a lot more to say about this interview. LOL!
Don’t they take leadership classes before they chin-up to a live mike? Do these fat cats really believe their own bile? You can’t make this stuff up. Since Mr. Gearon is probably reading this blog tonight, (he said he was up till 2AM researching how great Joe is compared to Kobe and Bron), let me help him out in 2 seconds.
Uggh … Mr. Gearon, JR – I’m sort of a big deal, I don’t know how to say this, but, people know me! So, listen up:
Mr. Joe Johnson is not: Kobe, LeBron or MJ. Does that help you out any? LOL! You BIG dummie!
______________
Here’s my point: like northcyde said, “if you’re scared, say you’re scared.”
So, take your 2M steaks and shove them where the sun don’t shine. And, like Najeh said last week, we don’t want those $8 stale Tostitos with Cheez-Whiz either.
We already ate!
This town, this city, these fans? We deserve a
W I N N E R!!!! And no, the superstars won’t come here unless, until YOU leave town.
If Gearon don’t like that? So, SUE me!
Hawks Blog Legend Worldwide Clyde
December 17th, 2011
11:03 pm
Gearon needs to hire me and JeJe as consultants to get more people in the stands and to improve the game atmosphere. First of all they need to play more rap music. Don’t play it on the organ but play the original song. That dubstep crap don’t get the crowd crunk. At that scrimmage it was so dead I almost fell asleep. The Hawks may have the worst game atmosphere in the NBA.
Joe Blow
December 17th, 2011
11:10 pm
I will agree with Mr. Gearon that the media in this town has painted the Hawks as a less than desireable place to play. If I were fortunate to have NBA talent I wouldn’t go to a place with the likes of Mark Bradley and John Kincade with an open forum. Outside of 790 The Zone the media in Atlanta is a joke. Who in their right mind would come here if they have options?
Ray
December 17th, 2011
11:10 pm
@ Rod from College Park
Those names don’t they make me think something that came out of a trailer park.
For all those trying to say they hope the owners or even Sund listen to us I doubt it cause who actually wanted T-mac or this other guy can’t even say his name lol.
When I think about getting over the hump type players those two don’t come to mind I know T-mac got some skills, but often injured. Honestly after Joe, Jt0, Smith, Horford, and maybe Zaza I think everyone else should just be undrafted prospects at least they’d actually try compare to some people we’ve signed recently.
Rod from College Park
December 17th, 2011
11:10 pm
Hawks Fan,
Also we still have an organ player playing the latest hits because our great ownership will pay Marvin Williams 40 million, but won’t licensing fees to artist. They would rather let you hear an off key organ player and hope you get excited with the Kiss Cam.
doc
December 17th, 2011
11:10 pm
for all the critics that come here and throw tantrums about what is said on the blogs by bloggers and to mr gearon who thinks there is only one pundit that is critical of how his ownership of the broken atlanta spirit group has been, i have news for you; the criticism runs large throughout the nation probably including the czar stern himself. was it because of them he has decided against this ownership and team when in similar circumstances two official protests? ok,that may be far fetched to some but there is a disrespect there to have allowed it in one and not in the other.
has gearon not heard the responses of former players or even ask what the problems were perceptually with coming to atlanta to help take the team to a new level? if not they have been documented many times over the years, seen again in tonights edition and he still doesnt show any signs of getting it.
to suggest a writer has it out for them is so second grade is beyond laughable; it is sad. it was also sad to never ever hear him say, well maybe we did a few things wrong. sad, too, it is all about how others mistreat them and their efforts to be good stewards of an nba franchise rather than man up to the mistrust and begin to change the facade. no, your boy gearon wants it to be a play ground war of us against them with a writer, no less, doing his job, pointing out the tough things. this market is soft when it comes to writers opinions from my travels and from what is read on the internet, just is.
good comments by many, najeh especially.
want to sell now we dont, we are never going to sell the thrashers and find out for 5 years that was their intent all along? and he is mad at shultz for pointing that out like any numbskull couldnt see it? they have taken from the city coffers by doing so because they couldnt market and run a competent franchise, running it into the ground while selling it behind our backs as a community. do you apologists see where this is going and how you and many others are hurt by their incompetence and petty in fighting in an ownership group to intentionally blow it up knowing it was underfunded and it was put together with sterns blessing? which hole has you head been buried in guys?
when this blog came about i said then and i say again it is about the owners and their incompetence to make a product and market it.
Najeh Davenpoop
December 17th, 2011
11:11 pm
“But how come all of these comments are negative? I understand you guys all have problems with the Hawks, but can’t you guys say some good things about them as well as the bad”
You know, I might have something good to say if Gearon was man enough to say “look, we have screwed up for the most part for these first seven years, but we have a plan”. But no, he tries to sell the turd sandwich of a regime he has constructed as something Hawks fans should appreciate. That, more than anything, is what causes the negative reaction. At least man up and admit to your series of blunders and lay out a plan for how to improve from there.
It’s unfortunate, because the players on this team are generally likable. It’s impossible to believe in them, though, when you see that the people pulling the strings are idiots.
drmaryb.[*_*].
December 17th, 2011
11:11 pm
Psycho Talk!
“Can you give me an explanation why you have some many problems, and not any happy thoughts?”
-Gearon, JR’s Grandmother-
___________
Sure, relax fellas I’ll take a stab at this one:
Answer: in F O U R letters – ASKG! (K=killer)
SteveW
December 17th, 2011
11:20 pm
I do not claim to know Micheal Gearon Jr.’s net worth. I do know in 1998 at the age of 33, he sold his Company Gearon Communications for 32 million dollars, and 5.3 million shares of stock. Now if that is American Tower stock, to whom he sold the company, that is currently trading at over $59.00 per share. This in itself would be worth over 300 million.
Also this from Fortune Magazine: “Back in 2004, Gearon and Hess exercised their “previously disclosed” rights to require American Tower to buy their stakes in that entity. Afterward Gearon collected $36.2 million, much of it in American Tower stock that has since more than tripled.”
So in 2004, he sold parts of a South American and/or Mexican Co. to American Tower and collected 36.2 mill, much in stock, which then tripled in value.
That is somewhere around 100 million on that one transaction alone.
And to say he wasn’t born with a silver spoon in his mouth is disingenuous. His father:”Gearon has spent almost 30 years in various capacities with the Atlanta Hawks, including general manager (1977-79), president (1977-1986) and chairman of the board (1986-2004)… A successful entrepreneur who retired from business at age 37, Gearon built one of the top real estate development companies in the country. Gearon & Company, which pioneered the concept of large-scale suburban office parks, was responsible for many of the business developments in Atlanta today, including the Coastal States Building and the Perimeter Center complex. A longtime associate and close friend of Ted Turner, Gearon is a former director of Turner Broadcasting. ” From the Hawks website
In other words, Gearon Jr. was born into a very wealthy family. I’ve gone into more details of ASG in times past, like Ted Turner’s son and son-in-law as part of it, Levenson’s incredible wealth etc. And I don’t begrudge them any of it. More power to them if they have obtained it legally.
But just trying to clear the record. To say Gearon Jr. is not worth 300 mill is probably very wrong – he is probably worth quite a bit more than that. But his father may not have been worth quite 300 million when Gearon Jr. was born, so that is technically accurate – he was not born with a 300 mill. silver spoon in his mouth.
But a silver spoon nonetheless.
And again, let me add and assure you, I am for free market capitalism – awesome, great they’re worth a ton. But Daddy and son are fabulously wealthy – and I’m not going to take the time to piece together Gearon Jr.’s pay year by year, but looking it over casually , I would say a half billion is not far off, at least…
Grandmaster JeJe
December 17th, 2011
11:22 pm
FIRE ASG
Grandmaster JeJe
December 17th, 2011
11:23 pm
HOW DID GEARON MANAGE TO GET RICH AND WHY DID HE SELL HIS COMPANY SO SOON?
HE DOESNT DESERVE IT
SteveW
December 17th, 2011
11:25 pm
And from my last post – that is the part that freaks me out about them caring about selling the #31 pick and things like that. I think the dude is more loaded by himself than many current NBA owners. But I’m sure he’s got his reasons.
And he’s only 46 – the guy is heading towards billionaire territory, quickly I might add.
Defensive Superstar Bogut no longer "1 armed man"
December 17th, 2011
11:25 pm
For the first time in a long time, center Andrew Bogut is rested. He’s healthy. He’s as close to full strength as he has been in years. That’s very good news for the Bucks, who struggled last season as Bogut tried to play his way back from a catastrophic right elbow injury suffered in April 2010.
“Offensively, I was very limited,” Bogut said. “When you cut out one side of your body it’s very hard to continue to go to my strength in my left hand when the scouting reports after 10 or 15 games told teams I didn’t want to go to my right.”
With only limited ability on offense, Bogut set his sights on being a better defensive player, one of his strong suits already. He led the league in blocks, with 2.58 per game, and had he played enough games he would have been among the league leaders in total and offensive rebounds. He still finished with 24 double-doubles.
Defense, though, is still Bogut’s specialty and what sets him apart from most big men in the game today.
“I don’t want to try and put a ceiling on it, but I don’t know that he can get much better on that end,” Skiles said. “He’s very, very good — one of the best. He has the unique ability to not only be in the right spot, he’s a good communicator and he helps you organize your defense. He’s one of the rare guys that blocks shots and takes charges. Usually, with big guys, it’s either or. He does both. Around the basket, you’re a little leery of going in there because he might block it or if you go in there with three fouls and leave your feet, he’s liable to take a charge and put the fourth one on you. That hasn’t changed. He’ll still do that. He’s a top-shelf defender, for sure.”
Joe.Jeff.Smith.Leuer.Bogut
December 17th, 2011
11:26 pm
“Most of my injuries have been impact injuries. That comes down to things like diving for loose balls, setting hard screens … I’ve been hit in the shin and tore a membrane in my shin. I can’t control that. You look at guys who people call injury-prone. Look at Gerald Wallace, he’s had his injuries. But he’s all over the floor. When you play hard, you’re going to get hurt sometimes. That’s just the way it goes.”
Said Skiles: “He still played in a lot of games last year. I think that’s a little overblown.”
JSS
December 17th, 2011
11:29 pm
I can’t stand Kincade (stop laughing), but he, Schultz, and Bradley are no longer the issues… They (The Hawks and the ASG) had a fresh clean pond when they shed Woodrow and promptly threw 10,000 rotten and bloated dead cows into it! The Drew hiring process was a disaster. Kolvachuk was gone from the Thrashers so they couldn’t had that lie out there anymore.Add to that there object failure to make any head way in the largest NBA UFA class in a 1/4century… And then came Joe, it just reeked of desperation…
Michael Cunningham
December 17th, 2011
11:34 pm
new blog is posted. keeping this thread open for a couple days to allow comment on this topic so please keep it clean. i will be at the other blog.
JSS
December 17th, 2011
11:36 pm
@ Steve W…
Assets don’t always add up to liquidity! How much of all of that is leveraged?
O'Brien
December 17th, 2011
11:37 pm
From a Jeff Schultz blog in June;
And so, we give you ESPN The Magazine’s ninth annual “Ultimate Standings” of 2011. The magazine ranked all 122 sports franchises, including those who might be moving to Winnipeg. Their eight criteria were bang for the buck (wins vs. revenue in the last three years); fan relations; ownership (the word “honesty” was invoked); affordability; stadium experience; players (effort and likability); coaching; and title track (championships won or expected in lifetime of current fans).
The Braves and Falcons fared well, ranking 19th and 20th, respectively. You’ll have to go lower to find the Hawks and Thrashers.
Lower. Still lower. Almost there.
The Hawks rank 103rd, a huge drop of 59 spots from last year’s No. 44 ranking. The Thrashers rank 115, and it’s not surprising what dragged them down the most — ownership..
Jeff was reporting what ESPN the magazine said. I’m surprised gearon didnt call out ESPN the magazine too.
Melvin
December 17th, 2011
11:38 pm
Watching the Kings/Warriors game and Cousins is not playing. He’s sitting on the bench (with a sour face) in his warmups. I haven’t heard why he wasn’t playing but I would guess it’s more of a CD than injury. It’s been reported that he’s had several attitude problems since he was drafted by the Kings. Anyway, if made me think. How many would be willing do a trade for Al for DeMarcus Cousins? The Kings would probably have to package another player to make the salaries match but the base of the trade would be AL for DeMarcus.
Joe.Jeff.Smith.Leuer.Bogut
December 17th, 2011
11:42 pm
“If guys come in here not focused on a championship, just making the playoffs, we need to trade them. We need to be talking about a championship and nothing else. You can’t limit yourself to just playoffs. Who wants to do that? Playoffs is not really an achievement to me. Anybody can get to the playoffs.”
- Stephen Jackson, injured Bucks forward
Joe.Jeff.Smith.Leuer.Bogut
P C
December 17th, 2011
11:45 pm
“having one less team to deal with” mean “we finally dumped the Thrashers and got to stop paying for and dealing with a sport we never understood and never wanted – what a relief!”. THAT is why you get no more of my money – ever! I’ve been a Hawks fan since the 70s and John Drew, but I won’t spend a dime on them anymore until these condescending idiots are no longer associated with the team. When you dumped hockey, you dumped many of your fans – Arthur Blank has never treated his fans like moronic imbeciles, so quit complaining about him receiving the adoration of the fans which you will NEVER receive, and which you will NEVER deserve!
Just a fan from Sudan
December 17th, 2011
11:51 pm
Just a little story for those who can spare a minute…
I’m a fan from a country called Sudan (where Darfur is ), but have previously lived in the states for 2.5 years when I was younger… in Atlanta… I got hooked on baskerball and baseball ( can’t stand football), and ever since then I’ve been a loyal Hawks and Braves fan (hated how everyone just jumps on the Lakers wagon). Even when I went back home to Sudan, I would stream their games online despite the limited NBA media coverage there and our crappy internet connection. Now I’m back in the states after 12 years of being away, and I’m excited to see us actually going past the first round in the playoffs, However…
… I always thought how we did things in the trade market was way too conservative and then I researched about the owners…It didn’t take me long to figure out that despite being a decent ownership, they would never make the moves that will give us loyal fans a championship. I thought I was one of the few that saw this but I recently discovered this blog(btw MC is just awesome) and I’m amazed by how rational the fans (at least) some are, I felt like I belong lol. I love the Braves, and I love how Wren has been running the team, I’m not worried about the Braves cuz I know they’re on the right track. Unfortunately things seem ‘horizontal’ for our Hawks, I really wish we had someone like Wren for this team, someone who takes the necessary gambles and willing to lose some money.
I’ve read the QA above and found the part where he compared us to the ‘L.A. Clippers Model’ .
Exactly.
Why will they become the next big thing in LA? Because they’ve finally made the move that will take them to the next level.
When will we?
Mystikal
December 17th, 2011
11:58 pm
He just acknowledges the facts that allow him to pat himself on the back and ignore everything else.
I wonder if he’s related to Skip Bayless…
Joe
December 17th, 2011
11:59 pm
Enter your comments here
Joe
December 18th, 2011
12:10 am
I’m invested, bought season tickets. Hoping Josh stays away from the perimeter, JT stays the pg we saw against Bulls, JJ can play injury free, Marvin’s back holds up and Al’s jumper continues to improve. Who gives a rats A$$ about owners,,,,, never saw them lace up a high top. GO HAWKS!!!!!
Joe.Jeff.Smith.Leuer.Bogut
December 18th, 2011
12:23 am
really, instead of hoping he wont be held to 3 FTA in 35 minutes…. you hope Al’s jumper continues to improve…and he’ll rely on it more.
160FTA Over or under for Al?
tjhook
December 18th, 2011
12:35 am
O’Brien, great reference concerning Schultz’s take on ESPN franchise poll. As far as my two cents goes, Gearon is right about one thing, Hinrich’s presence is a obvious allusion that the Hawks are promoting themselves as a defensive squad . . . which makes MC’s question about the margin of defeat the team excelled at last year something that should be revisited throughout the season. Defensive effort and chemistry will be the most important things to watch this season, in my opinion. Even more important than scoring options because Drew’s offense is tailored to get players open looks on the perimeter, right?!
ONCE AGAIN, I will suggest that the Hawks consider trading Marvin Williams for Josh Childress. The team needs a utility guy, a glue guy who is opportunistic and not hesitant (Marvin is hesitant, a trait in basketball that is unacceptable).
YouRuinedTheThrashers
December 18th, 2011
12:46 am
how can you say you tried your hardest with the thrashers when it was obvious you threw the team in the trash year after year.
YouRuinedTheThrashers
December 18th, 2011
12:58 am
On a more hawks note, I am extremely optimistic about this season. I’m looking at games on ticketmaster and they look to be more sold than last year. The hawks this year, will either be really surprisingly good, or suck. If they suck, we can only hope that ASG can turn it around or this city is certainly turning its back on this team. Shocking, but true. Like he said, it’s a make or break season for this team, and looking how jsmoove has gotten a lot better from what I’ve seen, Joe should be better than last season, Jeff Teague is going to get his chance FINALLY, Marvin… who knows, and the addition of tmac and Rodmanovic (sp?) I really hope helps fill the void Jamal left. I really hope this is just one of those years that we shock the world (heh had to use it).
clark kent
December 18th, 2011
1:24 am
This team can rot in hell as long as the A$G owns them. I will never step foot in Phillips or spend a single penny that goes in their pocket while they are still involved with the team.
Grandad
December 18th, 2011
2:18 am
Another blog up – just in case.
"Chef" Tim Dix
December 18th, 2011
8:12 am
To sum up the ASG experience: GM drafts 47 PF’s thinking centers are over-rated.
GM change. Unable to hire one on their own, ASG goes to the league and pulls Sund out of the offices.
Draft two point guards, one rots at the end of the bench, other survives coaching change.
ASG goes over the top to pay for the low hanging fruit (JJ).
And all the the while never developing a organic, home grown player that would draws fans to the arena.
Now you’re up to date with the Hawks.
KevinM
December 18th, 2011
8:14 am
Man, did Gearon touch a nerve or 2 or what? He has very few defenders and if you have watched this team the last 3 years, you would see the reason for all the passionate arguments.
Big Ray, northcyde, BuddyG, DMB, wow!! I applaud you and the others for being some on point.
MC, you and TimT gave us the best interview in recent memory. I am sure you know that we only want to grow this thing, yet Gearon thinks we are already there.
Mr. Gearon, let me say we are 2 years too late in blowing this thing up. The fan base was simply appalled with the money given to Joe when we and you know you were not going to surpass the luxury tax level. You tell us you are doing everything possible to be competitive each year. Are other teams following your ‘model’? The teams that want to win the trophy are not. Remember the Celtics trade for KG? That is the model they are following. Quit taking credit for some new movement that isn’t there.
You should be looking at Boston, LA, Miami……the big 3 is the model.
You should’ve amnestied Marvin, but you had no 2nd plan. You will pay him with active $$ and that one move will cost us dearly.
I, however, am not here to find fault in everything. JC1 was a good move. Teague was a good move, despite the 1 year delay in letting him play regularly. LD came up with a great plan to beat the Magic in Round 1.
But, there hasn’t been enough of those types of things. You have to gamble and if Sund was the knowledgeable guy you make him out to be (cause you have yet to admit a limitation and fire an underachieving GM), he wouldn’t have bungled the exit of Bibby. Now, I agree, other GMs have been just as blind thinking Bibbybhas anything left, much less being in his prime. Sometimes, you just cut bait instead of hanging on. When you hang on and not make moves sooner, you then are predictable, and even the fans are more creative with improvements.
Please, quit telling us you are not selling the team. Your word is not verybgoodmaround Atlanta right now. That suggestion by DMB to wear a logo on Marta? Not a good idea in your role here.
It’s time for you and your partners to ’start’ finding ways to have the best 13-15 man roster in the league. We are where we are for a reason, and you methods need to be more progressive going forward.
DHD
December 18th, 2011
8:42 am
Bull
Do the right thing and sell the team to somebody who gives a flying flip.
Unknown
December 18th, 2011
9:06 am
I hope something bad happens to all the Hawks owners. They deserve it.
Atlanta Spirit Sucks
December 18th, 2011
9:47 am
Did Gearon graduate from the Enron School of Accounting and Statistics?
Paul From Milton
December 18th, 2011
9:51 am
ASG killed hockey in Atlanta. I will never attend or watch a game that has a team owned by ASG in it. I will never forget nor ever forgive.
WTF
December 18th, 2011
9:55 am
What a load of garbage. You can make the playoffs with a SUB-.500 RECORD, GEARON.
He only needs one question: Nearly every team that advances to the conference final and NBA Finals is led by a Top 10 player. Do the Hawks have a Top 10 player, and if not, why haven’t they aggresively pursued one instead of overpaying for guys like Marvin Williams and Mike Bibby?
END OF DISCUSSION, LITTLE MIKEY.
WTF
December 18th, 2011
10:00 am
This idiot is basically saying that players are savvy enough to recognize a bad organization. Uhhhh, lets’ see:
Cheap hires for head coaches.
Cheap retreads for GMs.
Two egregious errors in the NBA Draft that EVERYONE still laughs at.
Overpaying for good-not-great players.
Can’t even sell the franchise when everyone wants YOU GONE.
And how to they respond? By bringing back the same group no one likes.
BRILLIANT!!!!!!
Ken Strickland
December 18th, 2011
10:04 am
DOC-Say it aint so. Did I actually lose you at the end? Well, allow me to explain. I was saying that I believed Wannamaker was a better PG than Jamal, but Jamal is definitely the better OFF players/scorer, while Wannamaker is definitely better defensively, He’s capable of beating his man off the dribble without taking over the OFF, pounding the ball while using a series of tricky dribbles to get past his man, and is a better facilitator.
If DEF, consistency, and PG skills are what you want, Wannamaker is the better choice, but if scoring and excitement is what you need, Jamal is the better choice. We’ve managed to do well in the past with inconsistency, OFF limitations, and absoluterly NO DEF from the PG position. If DEF win championships, it’s about time we embraced that concept and see what we can do with those issues resolved.
Zone 3
December 18th, 2011
10:09 am
Look at those bitter Vick fans trashing the Falcons… LOL How’s your boy doing in Philadelphia? I heard a few days ago that he was on Sam Hurd’s customer “list” RUH OH!
Say what you want, but at least Arthur is making bold moves: Gonzalez, Turner, Jones, Abraham, etc.
What’s the Hawks’ idea of a bold move? KIRK HINRICH? LMFAO!!!!!
Have fun watching Josh Smith shoot 30 foot jumpers in an empty arena in a few weeks, losers.
Zone 3
December 18th, 2011
10:15 am
Who is this clown posting about Jon Leuer all over here? Is that going to get you a championship? NO. Quit wasting the keystrokes and get a job.
Tom Lysiak
December 18th, 2011
10:32 am
Add one more to the list of Thrasher fans that will NEVER spend a dime on anything these loser owners are involved in. Worst set of owners in history. Proof positive that money doesn’t mean you can run real teams.
Keep blaming the fans and AJC writers…..you out of touch cry-baby.
NIGHT TRAIN
December 18th, 2011
10:35 am
Gearon,
You are such a schmuck. Throwing the Falcons and Braves under the bus!! The reason the Hawks make the playoffs every year is because HALF the teams in the NBA make the playoffs you clown. YOURE THE PROBLEM. ATLANTA IS SICK OF YOU. I LOVE THE HAWKS BUT HATE YOU AND YOUR TRUST FUND FRIENDS.
jhan
December 18th, 2011
10:38 am
Do people really think the Knicks, Lakers & Bulls have more fans because of their ownership? How about looking at the population for those cities. NY – 21,000,000, LA – 16,000,000, CHI – 9,000,000, ATL – 4,000,000. I don’t think the ASG is very good either but try and keep some perspective.
No titles for NY since 1973. CHI since 1998. It’s not the fantastic trades & hires these teams have made recently that have the fans supporting them. When your fanbase is 4 to 5 times larger than everyone else it makes it easier to draw. I grew up in Chicago & believe me they were not very popular until MJ was drafted. Pure luck he fell into their laps so it was no great move by Reinsdorf or Krause that made them great.
I was very excited when I thought we had new ownership in town & would still love to see it happen. Some of you guys would run this franchise right back to 13 wins if given the reins.
Christian Hiers
December 18th, 2011
10:43 am
Gearon go sign Jordan for !00,000.
Disgusted
December 18th, 2011
10:49 am
As bad as Gearon is, he is not the worst in that group. Maybe its better we never hear from Bruce “Just Deal With it” Levenson.
The Falcons have nothing to do with the ASG LLC in this city. Arthur Blank has made some mistakes but he makes an effort to correct them. And their time in the playoffs is comming.
Gearon bring him up is just a cover up that does not work. Blank is the only decent owner we have right now.
Okay, they have spent some $$$$$ on the Hawks but the way they treated and lied to the Thrasher fans, that is one group that will never have anything to do with the Phillips Arena again.
It is hard to root for a guy like Joe Johnson. He is just not likable regarless of how many points he scores. I think he should have been Booed. Maybe Philly would be a good place for him and he will see angry fans show up to Boo.
Yea, and how about keeping around Billy Knight all these yrs with his picks of Sheldon Williams, and Mediocre Marvin over Chris Paul. Knight was also a heck of a guy, and Joe Johnson must have takes some PR courses from Bumblin Billy.
.
Disgusted
December 18th, 2011
10:55 am
jhan–The Bulls have pieces in place to make another run at it again. I like their chances in the East.
The Hawks have been mired in mediocrity for mostly their whole existance here and when they had a chance to make a run in 94, they trade the best player they ever had for a hamburgetr in Danny Manning who did not want to be here.
Nique still had some of his game left in 93-94 and would they have gotten further that yr–we will never know. But for Danny Manning, no, it was never going to fit here.
I know that has nothing to do with this group, but its a piece of history that explains why some of us just do not like this team.
Hawks Fan
December 18th, 2011
10:57 am
Joe Johnson is a top 10 player in the NBA. He took the hawks from being a 13 win team to being a 43-50 something win team. You guys all complain about his contract, but let me ask you this. Would you rather have lost Joe Johnson a 5 time all star in return for nothing? I would say no, but I am willing to bet Najeh will say something different.
Now as to all you Thrasher fans. You can’t blame Gearon for the loss of the Thrashers, sure he was the owner but it isn’t his fault no one came to the games. Would you like to pay the 30 million $ losses every year? I know I sure wouldn’t.
And now addressing the LD coaching problems. Why are you guys hating on this guy? What has he done wrong? He got us as far into the playoffs as we have ever been and almost beat arguable one of the best teams in the league, and on top of that he masterminded the plan to beat the Magic which we didn’t do the previous year.
drmaryb.[*_*].
December 18th, 2011
11:05 am
Just Wow!
I just realized I hadn’t read page 1 comments until a minute ago.
Najeh! WOW! Your translations of that bile rhetoric was amazing. Unemotional and you captured my perspective brilliantly!
Just magnificent work. You are a Super-Star talent when ot comes to stealth reasoning and communication!
I am a LIFE TIME fan of Mr. Davenpoop!!!!
Proud-Dawg
December 18th, 2011
11:14 am
GEARON READ ME
You are clueless. It’s actually pathetic, because you truly believes this garbage. News flash, they don’t hang banners for 2nd round appearances. And please stop comparing the Hawks to the Lakers, Celtics, Heat, Bulls, etc. It’s embarrassing. Mediocrity is the goal for this ownership group. You let my Thrashers leave town, now you won’t get a penny of my money. I WILL NOT renew my season tickets until we get new owners.
ATL Flames Fan
December 18th, 2011
11:43 am
These thieves stole hockey from Atlanta fans for their own selfish goals. Gearon, Levenson, Seydal, et al are slime. They are not community builders but destroyers. I will not spend a dime at Philips arena until these scums are gone.
mike
December 18th, 2011
11:52 am
I like his comments. I can’t spin this to say that I don’t like Gearon- I think he comes off well in this interview. I guess haters will hate regardless, but I am willing to take him for his word.
G
December 18th, 2011
11:57 am
This is a reason most fans don’t care for the Hawks. We have to listen to a whining owner who blames everyone else for their mistakes…
IAW
December 18th, 2011
11:59 am
NIGHT TRAIN
While half the teams make the NBA playoffs only 8 of 30 (27%) make the 2nd round as the Hawks have the past three seasons. 12 of 32 (38%) of NFL teams make the playoffs. Making the NFL playoffs is not more on accomplishment than making the 2nd round of the NBA playoffs.
DUKEofBLUELAND
December 18th, 2011
12:00 pm
Go to hell Gearon. I hope you all die and rot in hell.
wut
December 18th, 2011
12:01 pm
“Joe Johnson is a top 10 player in the NBA.”
James, Howard, Wade, Nowitzki, Paul, Bryant, Durant, Rose, D.Williams, Griffin.
There’s 10 players off the top of my head better than Joe and I could make the case for a couple others to be in there. He’s probably not in the Top 20 really, thanks to age, injuries and lack of killer instinct.
ATL Flames Fan
December 18th, 2011
12:06 pm
@DukeofBlueland:
You expressed my feelings much better than I did!
rob
December 18th, 2011
12:06 pm
amazing how this guy knows so little. he is so blind to reality. how do you compare NFL playoffs to NBA? everyone makes the playoffs in the NBA unless ur hopeless. Falcons lost to the Superbowl champs(GB) and to AZ who was 40 seconds from winning the superbowl and Ryan was a rookie. Please sell the team, ur an idiot
jhan
December 18th, 2011
12:06 pm
I like the Bulls squad also – a team that we probably would have beaten if Kirk was healthy.
Sounds like Gearon just wants a little acknowledgement for his efforts. The team went from 13 wins to 3 consecutive EC semifinals. Took his payroll from the bottom to near the top. Has 2 All-Stars & 1 borderline All-Star on his team. I kind of have to agree with him to an extent.
It’s like a consistent D student who works hard to become a B+ student and all the parents do is complain that they are not valedictorian. I can see where he’s coming from – to a point.
Doc
December 18th, 2011
12:10 pm
Jss think he is saying the ajc can’t afford to keep the blog going even as his stipend for doing it is more ceremonious than affecting how much more he will pay on his tax return each year. When they shut the fan blog and lost the thrashers they were able to cut two expenses though in them both there was quality and in the thrasher one the moderator was much better than the hired assigned writer that knew little about the sport he covered.
Some people don’t come close to truth because it gets in the way of their own fantasy world.
Doc
December 18th, 2011
12:11 pm
Jhan will prob switch my interests away from Portland and onto the bulls as I like the way they play the game, their star and coach, a real one at that.
Mike
December 18th, 2011
12:17 pm
After all of Gearon’s lies and doing everything he could to run the Thrashers out of town, I hope the Hawks dont make the playoffs again while he is owner. What a lying piece of crap this guy is.
Grandmaster JeJe
December 18th, 2011
12:31 pm
“I like the Bulls squad also – a team that we probably would have beaten if Kirk was healthy.
Sounds like Gearon just wants a little acknowledgement for his efforts. The team went from 13 wins to 3 consecutive EC semifinals. Took his payroll from the bottom to near the top. Has 2 All-Stars & 1 borderline All-Star on his team. I kind of have to agree with him to an extent.”
if Kirk had been healthy, Jeff Teague would not have played in the series
Disgusted
December 18th, 2011
1:12 pm
Ownership did everything to run off Thrasher fans by them not keeping their better players and spending to the cap floor.
And one of the owners telling their season ticket holders to just deal with it.
People were comming to the games in the early yrs and in mid decade when there were respectable, the place was rocking.
Should we are a city been more patient and supported the team better? Maybe. Howeverr they sure worked quickly and hard to jettision the team asap after the Belkin mess was settled. Most cities would not have supported what we went through. I do not believe they lost as much as they say they did.
There are so many issues about the Thrashers that its too much to put in a post, you have to have been a fan to get it. Their pack ofmisleading statements through the whole time is what it was. We would have had fewer yrs of the Thrashers had it not been for the law suit, they never wanted the hockey team and they ran their operation like it.
I give Gearon, Leveinson and the whole group a big fat Zero for my support. Hope the Thrasher fans stand strong and agree, boycott the Phillips regardless of what.
Coastiemike
December 18th, 2011
1:13 pm
Hey Gearon’s, remember me? A Hawks season ticket holder for 17 years and Thrashers season ticket holder for 10? If you don’t remember, let me refresh. I’m the one who cancelled my Hawks season tickets after you lied to me about the sale of the Thrashers. Let me return the favor and quote what I was told at a Thrashers STH meeting. Now that youve made your bed, you’ll “just have to deal with it.” once you, and the rest of the inept ASG are no longer associated with the team in anyway, I will renew my seasons tickets once again — that is unless you sale and allow the Hawks to move also. Until then, I will enjoy my box seats for the Falcons whom you are pathetically jealous of by looking at your comments. You can’t leave Atlanta soon enough.
drmaryb.[*_*].
December 18th, 2011
2:01 pm
Acknowledgement?
“Sounds like Gearon just wants a little acknowledgment for his efforts. The team went from 13 wins to 3 consecutive EC semifinals.”
- jhan aka: gearon,jr’s grandmother-
_______________
From 13 wins, the only way is up. What is unbelievable is the team’s greatest need was a PG. With the #2 pick, there was CP3 & DWill staring down the barrel. A PG is the driver of the car and we picked the hostage in the trunk!
Where was the acknowledgment from The ASKG then?
Rick D.
December 18th, 2011
2:09 pm
OK… we’ve heard Gearon’s perspective and it has some merit, some positive accurate results and some unfair criticism. I for one was very optimistic and reserved to give this ownership group a chance. Most Atlanta fans were the same. The spirit group in fairness did a good job getting the Hawks out of the gutter. But as is the norms expectation will and do raise as success is gained. Ultimately the bar in competition is always set at a Championship level. I think we’ve seen the Spirit Group peek out. They are not bold enough, decisive enough, and deliberate enough to push the Hawks to beyond the “just good” level. They jerk around with renewing the core players contracts and in the end either lose them or are forced by circumstances to resign them at much higher free-agent levels…aka JJ, J Smooth, loss of J Chill, and J. Crawford… the list is endless. Then there this good rookie pic- never play history that just kills the Hawks future and potential. How many more Teagues and Jordan Crawford’s and the long list of other good draft picks do we waste. We get these talent young guys only to see them end up as professional splinter pickers on the bench. Ultimately they end up torching the Hawks later on another team. Wasted valuable resources! Finally, everyone now fears that this group will decimate the Hawks just as they did the Thrashers. That is a fact we now live with and I can assure you that the shear mention of the Spirit Group is now a total disdain in Atlanta. Nothing aside from leading the Has to a Championship will change that. You want our support. Then get bold, get decisive, get deliberate and by shear will and determination lead the Hawks to the promise land. Being good is no longer enough. We want to see these Hawks fly to the NBA finals. Only then will you get our support once again and begin to erode the disaster and well earned hatred you created by throwing the Thrashers under the bus. We’re watching closely!
Tremaine
December 18th, 2011
2:19 pm
Yawn……..
Hockeyfan
December 18th, 2011
2:27 pm
Gearon is talking about how he loves the city and the fans and the team…. I guess that he means Gearon is about to move the Hawks to another city
drmaryb.[*_*].
December 18th, 2011
2:29 pm
CP3
At the beginning of this season CP3 named the Hawks as a team on his short list that he would sign an extension with.
That was an opportunity for ASKG to right a wrong!
They did nothing! Did they even pick up the phone? Then when the CP3 to LA deal was nixed by the league, opportunity knocked once again. That’s twice in one week and the first knock was on CP3’s draft day.
If they are not willing to pay any luxury tax for CP3 – then who? These imbeciles have no desire whatsoever to do anything good for this franchise. Last year the bird killers, killed a Thrasher and this year they are killing a Hawk.
Where is PETA when you need them. Lock these guys up for animal abuse.
northcyde
December 18th, 2011
2:36 pm
My thing is this . .
I’m proud the Hawks of being a perennial playoff team these days. It’s much better to root for a team that will make the playoffs, that one that you know won’t make it.
Gearon has to realize though that once you reach playoff level, the NEXT LEVEL is CHAMPIONSHIP LEVEL.
3 straight years of 2nd round appearances isn’t good enough anymore Gearon. That’s just the way sports are.
If we make the 2nd round this year, and if for some crazy reason the Lakers and Celtics lose in the 1st round, are you going to say that the Hawks are the only team in the NBA that has made it to the 2nd round 4 years in a row?
Like someone said, they don’t hang banners for reaching the 2nd round. All that means is that you are a good basketball team. But we haven’t won a division title yet. We haven’t gotten a top 2 seed in the East, which would give us the home court advantage in the 2nd round . . and might enable us to win that series.
*************************
You want some credit Gearon. OK.
- This current 4 year era of the Hawks is the 3rd most successful 4 year stretch in Atlanta Hawks history.
- Joe Johnson is one of the top 7 Atlanta Hawks players of all time . . and you brought him to us
- Josh Smith is the most exciting Hawks player since Dominique Wilkins
- Al Horford is the best draft pick since Kevin Willis
***********************
Now the question is . . . is this enough?
No aspirations to win a division title?
No aspirations to get to the Eastern Conference Finals?
No aspirations to get to the NBA Finals?
No aspirations to win the NBA Championship?
If your only aspirations are to put a good product out on the floor, then it’s no wonder why the fans rip into you and your colleagues. That would NEVER FLY in a city like LA or Boston or even Dallas.
Greg
December 18th, 2011
3:17 pm
I was angry that they let Crawford get away for comparatively little, but I have to admit what many appear to be resistant to admitting… Gearon’s mostly right.
Kudos to MC on the solid interview.
The only question I would have wanted MC to ask in addition is how prudent it is to wait until mid-season to make another acquisition when the schedule is as concentrated as it is… you would seem to NEED 2-3 more guys in the rotation this year.
jhan
December 18th, 2011
3:48 pm
I like the way the Bulls are looking also & will continue to pull for them.
My biggest issue with ASG has to be mismanagement of assets. We’ve given away too many picks & players for absolutely nothing. Not drafting CP3/Deron was the biggest waste of an asset for Billy Knight.
Hawks Fan
December 18th, 2011
4:14 pm
This is for you “WUT” blake griffin is not better than Joe? What does he have to prove that he does? Has he made the second round 3 years in a row? No, has he been an all star 5 years straight.
He is also better than Deron Williams. I also say this again, has D-will taken a team from 13 wins to 47 no, has he been an all star 5 years straight no
And also he is better than Chris Paul. Chris Paul hasn’t been able to single handedly turn a team around so Joe again wins that one.
drmaryb.[*_*].
December 18th, 2011
4:42 pm
Nothing Gained!
“I was angry that they let Crawford get away for comparatively little” -Greg-
________________
Then you should be fuming – they got NOTHING! Jamal walked as an UFA.
Greg
December 18th, 2011
5:09 pm
“Comparatively little” … to be clear… compared to early estimates which had him signing for anywhere from $7-9mil… sorry, should’ve explained better.
Grandmaster JeJe
December 18th, 2011
6:21 pm
Hawks Fan, I am pretty sure Deron has been to the WCF
Chad
December 18th, 2011
6:22 pm
.563, .523, .444, .435. Can you pick the Hawks winning % over the past 7 season? .435. Others, Falcons, Braves,& Thrashers
Grandmaster JeJe
December 18th, 2011
6:23 pm
Northcyde, as the interview stated, our goal is to be competitive and entertaining. Expecting a championship is unrealistic.
That’s what our owner said
Grandmaster JeJe
December 18th, 2011
6:25 pm
It pains me to say this, but MJ MAY be a worse owner than ASG. He traded Captain Jack, is not signing anyone, and let Kwame- someone who wanted to stay- go. Looks like the 2004 Hawks.
I won’t say MJ is worse though, because he is MJ and ASG ISN’t
Ken Strickland
December 18th, 2011
7:39 pm
DRMARYB-We actually got exactly what we wanted for Jamal, and that was to clear his $10.8M off the books without taking back a penny. His salary was used to cover AHorford’s new contract.
Ken Strickland
December 18th, 2011
7:50 pm
I can’t wait until tomorrows gm against the Bobcats. It will give us a much better idea of what we can respect from players battling for a roster spot like Sloan, Wanamaker, Pape Sy, ARolle, Stackhouse, and Benson. Seeing them go against players and OFF/DEF systems they’re unfamiliar with will be a major test.
Sillent
December 18th, 2011
10:46 pm
Wow!! Read some of the beginning blogs and they seemed very ignorant to the game of basketball and running a team. A “Real Team” with real human’s, human emotions and real life happenings on and off the court. The ASG has put together a great young team with good human beings that are still learning how to put it all together. They have been great with bringing good character guys on the team and have taken action yearly at improving needs to fit the teams character. They passed up on guys that in the short run have made them look incompetent but they’ve continued to follow their vision. This year they put together a team to correct what we were missing last year. Now from top to bottom we have a full defense team from guards, forwards to centers. We’ve eliminated all of our weak points on defense while giving our core and bench an opportunity to get the points on offense that will be missed without Crawford. Defense and Chemistry wins champions and we have a strong core that has been with us for awhile. We added key pieces (like Tracy McGrady and hopefully Jerry Stackhouse) that bring us leadership from players who know what it’s like to play at an elite caliber and are therefore highly respected. We also added Radmanovic as a three point threat which will help us on our spacing as well as giving us an opportunity to play bigger. These moves definitely put us in a caliber with the elite!! We also managed to keep young players, like Pape Sy who is a great talent & Magnum Rolle who is a 6′11 athletic and talented big. Don’t forget about our rook Keith Benson!! He can rebound, defend and score & will get bigger & better over time. Remember the all 6′9 team that most of us felt Billy Knight was obsessed with, well guess what we have now? The vision and it seems to look pretty good we you can boast a lineup of Teague /T Mac, Joe/Stackhouse, Marvin/Smoove, Rad, Al and more !! Seriously though If you can not understand where Gearon is coming from, you are not a Hawks fan and you need to find your team!! Just be honest with yourself. How many teams are improving better and consistently as the Hawks in the last couple of years?
Proud-Dawg
December 19th, 2011
12:00 am
‘Hawks Fan’ is Gearon trying to save face
Carrlos Lyles
December 19th, 2011
12:11 am
i agree with Sillent.. the hawks are in good position for the future..
ScottBravesFan
December 19th, 2011
12:48 am
The Falcons don’t get 1500 blog comments. That’s the Braves and UGA. As for the Hawks most people just don’t really care about the NBA in the south. I think more people think of it like a musician or the circus coming to town when a big team like the Lakers comes to Philips Arena. Some people get excited to see them play but most people don’t really care enough to become fans like they do the Braves or the Falcons. I just think it’s more of a cultural of professional basketball. How many people do you know that follow the NBA? If you know them they probably liked the Lakers in the 80s, Bulls in the 90s, Lakers again in the 00’s and now they like the Heat. That’s how a lot of NBA fans are. You just don’t see the die hard’s like you do in the other sports.
northcyde
December 19th, 2011
10:34 am
@ Sillent
Oklahoma City
Memphis
Chicago
possibly the Clippers, since they weren’t afraid to trade very good talent for a superstar
And that’s just the young teams.
Honestly, we’re lucky to be in the Eastern Conference.
Realist
December 19th, 2011
11:26 am
Sports are a business. A special one for sure, but in the end a business. Nobody on this site knows the first thing about the business of sports. The owners have done a good job of putting a very competitive and exciting team on the floor (including during the Belkin litigation when they weren’t even sure they would own the team), got rid of the money-draining Thrashers, and are poised to get better. None of you has spent hundredes of millions of your own money that you will never get back (Gearon and Levenson both started with nothing to build their businesses) on what is essentially a public property for your benefit. Most of you haven’t spent a penny of your own money even going to a game. The whiners outnumber the doers, which is why our country is in the crapper. I am a doer, and I just renewed my tickets. Whiners please stay home. Thanks.
Craig Speedy Ehlo
December 19th, 2011
11:44 am
The following is a google chat I had with a friend about Gearon and the owners – I said I could name 5 reasons why I hate them off the top of my head to refute his Q&A. I came up with 31 in 10 minutes:
me: I can think of about 5 reasons off the top of my head
1. You make poor decisions in your front office
2. You are not classy (like Arthur Blank)
3. Your players aren’t hard workers.
4. I can’t watch your games on network TV
Adam: not his fault about network
me: 5. Getting into traffic on a tuesday night to sit in an arena for 2 hours is not desirable
6. There’s nothing else to do near Philips
7. There’s a chance your team loses by 30 to the Timberwolves
8. I’ve seen these players for 4 years, generally just tired of them
9. There are so many guys out there and I never hear a single rumor involving interest on your part
10. Could you imagine trading a bunch of picks for a top-10 draft pick (a la Julio Jones)
11. I get that Joe Johnson is a 3 time all-star or whatever, but he’d be the 2nd best player on 7/8 of the playoff teams
12. Half the teams in the NBA make the playoffs
Adam: ha
me: 13. You have 82 regular season games. Why the f would I go to 41 games when half the teams make the playoffs?
14. I don’t care what you say, you were involved in a 4 year lawsuit with one of your partners – the fact that you couldn’t resolve it for the best interests of the team boggles my mind
15. You completely neglected the Thrashers, so much so that they left town for the coldest city in the northern hemisphere. F you.
16. You told us you weren’t selling the team, then you found a buyer, then the deal fell through – way to toy with our emotions
Adam: haha
geezus
me: 17. There’s hope that the Falcons will get to a superbowl soon
(there’s no hope of an NBA championship appearance with the hawks)
18. Every year you tell us that this group hasn’t hit their stride. Hey, look, this year they went to 6 games in the second round instead of being swept! And you use that as a way of saying that there is potential for more. Are you serious?
Adam: dude
put this all in writing
send to him
me: 19. We have needed a center and a pg for about 8 years, you have failed to bring us either
20. half the arena is overpriced club level. HALF
Sent at 11:27 AM on Monday
me: 21. You’ve made the second round 3 years in a row. The other two teams who have done that (Lakers and Celtics) have won championships yet you haven’t made it to the conference finals. Don’t insult me with those comparisons.
22. You say you spend more than the falcons. I’d argue that some people spend more on Pepsi than Coke. Like you, those people are idiots.
23. We were tired of Mike Woodson, and you hired his assistant
24. Article after article talks about Atlanta being the premier city for african-americans in America. Many specifically mention the number of athletes that live here. Even someone with the dimmest imagination believes that NBA players would want to play in ATL. You thwart them.
25. You drafted marvin williams.
26. You resigned marvin williams
27. you drafted sheldon williams
28. Who is Pape Sy?
29. Your own players leave the team citing ownership issues
30. Your beer is too damn expensive (as are your tickets)
Last reason I dislike them:
31. They are a failure.
tmc
December 19th, 2011
1:02 pm
What i took from reading all this:
Here is an owner who just doesn’t get it.
He may know basketball, he may be a fan…
But that doesn’t mean he can run a team well.
Just because you spend money doesn’t mean it money well spent.
How can you not understand your fan base, including writers and radio hosts, that look negatively about your stewardship when:
-ownership has been in court suing each other for years.
-you overpay one player to the point of hurting your team, twice.
-you give 2nd contracts to players who do not deserve the money offered.
-you self admittedly hire a coach because it’s on the cheap.
-continuously make moves that do not improve the club (j. crawford being the latest)
-call out the local media for bad PR
-and to do what they did with the Thrashers and not expect a carry-over to the Hawks… is just retarded.
MG- you may be a smart businessman, but you haven’t a clue how to run a sports team. Unfortunately for you, your fan base knows how to react to someone like you.
good riddance.
ryan
December 19th, 2011
2:39 pm
I can’t believe anyone would defend ASG the same owners who passed on Chris Paul yes granted the are some good pieces to this team its not the players we are mad at its the ASG the are afraid to take chances and improve the team to make it better .
Real Talk
December 19th, 2011
3:08 pm
Worst Ownership in Sports. Don’t even try and deny it. I would take Rankin Smith over these rejects 7 Days a week. . Please sell the Hawks fast.
Wabe
December 19th, 2011
7:23 pm
Already calling it…
Sloan won’t cut it.
Reggie
December 20th, 2011
9:49 am
The Hawks should sign Joel Przybilla. Based on what I saw last night, this guy could help the Hawks.
get lost
December 20th, 2011
10:26 am
This guy is a clown. I refuse to every spend another penny on the Hawks or anything going on at Philips until these bozos no longer own ANY percentage of the Hawks and the Philips Arena operating rights.
PaulieOldschool
December 20th, 2011
10:34 am
Real Talk, I agree with you re Mr. Smith. At least he seemed genuine in his love of the team. He and his son were just clueless, not cheap and avaricious like this group.
Iceman
December 20th, 2011
11:02 am
So many lies he spews in this chat.
Section 117
December 20th, 2011
11:07 am
How do you allow Jamal Crawford to just walk ???? Just doesn’t make any sense..Especially when you’re paying Marvin $40 Mio, his productivity was far less than Jamal’s.
tc
December 20th, 2011
11:17 am
Most of what Micheal said is accurate. My guess is that most of the negative posts on here came from people that did not even read the entire interview. Go Hawks!
tc
December 20th, 2011
11:18 am
Jamal does not play defense. Defensive play is way underestimated in basketball. When Jamal was on the court he was a liability defensively. Much like bibby.
tc
December 20th, 2011
11:19 am
Iceman: Name one?
HOBBS
December 20th, 2011
11:35 am
Okay, this guy proved he’s an idiot by attempting to justify the Joe Johnson contract! Here are the facts: Joe doesn’t make his teammates better on the floor, Joe doesn’t fill the stands, Joe doesn’t sell merchandising! All the people he compared him to do and that’s how a Max Contract should be justified! And for the record NO ONE IN HAWKS MANAGEMENT SHOULD EVER MENTION CHRIS PAUL’S NAME! BESIDES SIGNING JOE TO HIS ABSURD CONTRACT, PASSING ON PAUL IS THE 2ND WORST DECISION IN FRANCHISE HISTORY!!!!
Neki
December 20th, 2011
11:45 am
I think the reason why people is pissed because getting to the second round is fine and good but at some point you want to get passed that point. Like one poster says, “There is no second round banners” , the East is getting better with Miami Trio, Crafty “C”, Bulls with Rose, Youngsters from Indiana and Philly, and Melo/Amare in NY. Let be honest, do anybody think we can win three series in a row to get to the finals against teams like this and you still have Orlando and Bucks as well. The core has been outstanding for us, but stand still will do more harm than good.
jarvis
December 20th, 2011
11:46 am
Liar!
We lost a hockey team because of this a-hole.
Neki
December 20th, 2011
11:49 am
To contiune, Believe me, I dont hold any ill will against DASG, from 16 win team to a playoff shoe-in isnt a feat that is hard for any team that have to start from nothing but at some point, a decision has to be made, to get to the Finals or just stay as so, but you will lose alot more fans.
Dave
December 20th, 2011
11:53 am
Hockey is dead in Atlanta and while these morons didn’t kill it, they certainly made sure there were enough idiots in place to do it for them.
jarvis
December 20th, 2011
11:57 am
He is so full of excuses….most have no merit.
I love that the reason no players want to come to Atlanta is because Stoudemire “outspoken” and the “Lakers are the Lakers”.
The NETS and CLIPPERS are more desireable to players than the Hawks are. They are second-fiddle teams that garner no attention in their own cities.
Nancy
December 20th, 2011
12:26 pm
Gearon just does not get it and it looks like he never will. Fans need to believe in the “Face” of the ownership, not how much money they spend or don’t spend. When fans believe the ownership is making the right decisions, spending money wisely and can be trusted they will stand behind them. Gearon and company have been cited as the worse, least trustworthy ownership in the NHL and NBA. Fans are not stupid Michael Gearon, we have your number and we want you and your partners in crime gone. Your ownership will never have a “Face” that the fans believe in or trust.
i loathe thee
December 20th, 2011
2:52 pm
I would throw my own fecal matter at Gearon or any other member of the ASG. That is how much I hate them.
hawksfancents95
December 20th, 2011
4:56 pm
jannero pargo to the hawks, good pickup to give teague a few mins here and there.
jarvis
December 20th, 2011
7:45 pm
@hawksfancents95, that sound you heard was my jaw dropping to the floor. They might as well get sized for the rings now.
Don!
December 20th, 2011
10:27 pm
The reason they dumped the Atlanta Spirit name was because their ineptitude made it a PR liability. The name has changed, but the owners are the same. This is the worst ownership group in pro sports. I used to think it was Donald Sterling and the Clippers — but even they found a way to get Chris Paul.
And it’s not just the Hawks. I will never forgive this ownership group for losing the Thrashers. The way this team drove that franchise into the ground and out of town is unforgivable. I’d almost rather see the Hawks leave town than to have this group owning them. Almost. If it weren’t for the history of the franchise, and the hope that someday they will sell the team … to local owners … then I would have quit caring about the Hawks altogether.
All I want for Christmas is a new ownership group for the Hawks. And our Thrashers back. At least there’s a small sliver of hope for the Hawks.
Later,
Don!
ryan
December 20th, 2011
10:55 pm
Bad news just saw ESPN rumor that Dwight Howard to the Nets could still very well happen he seems intent with playing with Derron Williams i agree the Hawks maybe a good team but Hawks fans are tired seeing superstars going to other teams ASG wont even try .
realtalk
December 21st, 2011
12:24 am
Gearon please go jump off a bridge
UGAJD
December 21st, 2011
11:38 am
The Hawks pay Joe Johnson more than the Bulls will pay Derrick Rose under his new deal. That’s really all we need to know about the competence of Hawk’s management.
Hawks Writer
December 21st, 2011
5:10 pm
It’s time for Atlanta Hawks fans to take some ownership here. The team has been to the playoffs for four years straight. Yet, when you read these blogs you would think the Hawks were Golden State, Toronto, Minnesota, Clippers (pre-CP3) or the dang Charlotte Bobcats.
Wake up people and enjoy the winning. Yes I want to find the missing piece and ultimately win a championship too, but I also enjoy having a winning product on the floor to watch each year.
Joe Johnson is not an elite superstar, I get that, but the guy leads teams to the postseason. Carmelo, Bosh, Yao Ming and CP3 have all had trouble doing so.
Just ask yourself Hawks fans … who would you rather be right now? A Bobcats fan (who just gave up their two best players for garbage) or a Hawks fan? A Toronto Raptors fan (team isn’t going anywhere until at least 2017) or a Hawks fan?
It is cool to be frustrated. .. but lets keep perspective here folks.
NBA Wish Lists | Hickory-High
December 22nd, 2011
1:02 pm
[...] sense to let basketball people make basketball decisions, and the necessary sense of shame not to give interviews bragging about being in the top 10 in payroll in order to field a 44-win team that g….Jason Walker – @THHB – Peachtree Hoops - We would like a return to the Pac-Man unis of [...]
Horse Hockey
December 23rd, 2011
8:39 pm
I still hate you ASG. You tell lies and i don’t believe anything you say. When you’re gone, that will be reason to celebrate. Nothing personal though.