Did you know the Atlanta Hawks have retired the numbers of only five players? These are 9, 21, 23, 44, and 55. This shows how special and exclusive their tradition is. It goes back to when they started in 1946 as the Buffalo Bisons1.
This article will take you deep into the Hawks’ NBA team legacy. We’ll explore the key moments and players who made their mark in Hawks basketball history.
Key Takeaways
- The Atlanta Hawks were founded in 1946 and have changed a lot. They went from Buffalo Bisons to NBA stars21.
- The franchise won only one NBA Championship, in 195821.
- Dominique Wilkins is the Hawks’ all-time leading scorer. He’s also a nine-time NBA All-Star23.
- The Hawks have the second-longest championship drought in the NBA at 64 seasons1.
- The team had 10 straight playoff appearances from 2008 to 20171.
Introduction to the Atlanta Hawks
The Atlanta Hawks are a big team in the NBA. They started in 1946 and have many famous players and games. They have a lot of fans and have helped the NBA grow.
Watching them at State Farm Arena or on social media is exciting. The Hawks bring a lot of energy to the game.
The Hawks have changed a lot over the years. Dejounte Murray is a great example. He’s 27 and has been playing for six years4.
The Hawks have had many legendary players. Dominique Wilkins is one of them. He scored 30.3 points per game in 1985-865.
The Hawks’ story is inspiring. It shows what basketball is all about. For more, check out their stories on Instagram and Twitter4. The Hawks are a big part of the NBA, showing the best of basketball.
The Early History of the Atlanta Hawks
The Atlanta Hawks started in 1946 as the Buffalo Bisons. They later became the Tri-Cities Blackhawks. This early time helped shape the Hawks’ future in basketball.
From Buffalo Bisons to Tri-Cities Blackhawks
The Buffalo Bisons moved quickly to Illinois-Iowa. They became the Tri-Cities Blackhawks. This change was key in NBA history.
Transition to the NBA
In 1949, the Blackhawks joined the NBA. This was a big step in NBA history6. They helped shape professional basketball. The Hawks’ story began to grow from these early days.
The St. Louis Hawks Era
The St. Louis Hawks era was a golden time for the team. They moved from Milwaukee in 1955 to St. Louis. There, they quickly became a top team in the NBA, winning the 1958 NBA Championship.
This time showed the Hawks’ strong spirit. It made them a big name in basketball.
Championship Success in 1958
The Hawks’ best moment was winning the 1958 NBA Championship. Bob Pettit led the team with a 50-point game in Game 6 against Boston. This made Pettit a legend and the 1958 title a big part of Hawks history.

Notable Players and Moments
Many Hall of Fame players helped the Hawks win. Bob Pettit was a key player, winning two MVP awards. Other stars like Cliff Hagan and Slater Martin also made big impacts.
The Hawks had many memorable games. They faced tough teams like the Boston Celtics. These games made the Hawks famous and left a lasting mark on the NBA. For more on this time, check out the St. Louis Hawks and their amazing journey7.
The Move to Atlanta
The *Hawks’ relocation to Atlanta* in 1968 was a big change. It was a chance for the team to grow in a new place. This move changed the Hawks and had a big impact on Atlanta sports.
Reasons Behind the Move
Atlanta was chosen for its big market and growth. The city’s location was perfect for the team’s future. This move helped the Hawks grow in professional basketball.
Impact of the Relocation
The move to Atlanta changed the city’s sports scene. Fans started to support the team more. The Hawks became a big part of Atlanta’s basketball culture.
The team has had many successes, like a 60-win season in 20158. They’ve been in the playoffs 33 times. This shows how much the team has grown.
The Hawks have changed a lot over the years9. They’ve kept their fans and made Atlanta sports better. Their hard work and dedication are inspiring.
The Atlanta Hawks: History, Brand, Players, Hall of Fame, Championships
The Atlanta Hawks have a long and exciting history. They started as the Buffalo Bisons in 1946. Then, they became one of the NBA’s original teams in 194910. They have won many awards and had many great moments.

The team moved a few times early on. They went from Buffalo to Atlanta in 196810. They have shown they can adapt and keep going strong.
Dominique Wilkins played a lot for the Hawks. He scored 23,292 points and made 8,752 field goals11. His hard work and dedication are remembered well.
Bob Pettit also played a big role for the Hawks. He got a lot of rebounds and made many free throws11. His skills helped the team a lot.
The Hawks are a big part of Atlanta’s sports scene. They have had many great players over the years10. These players have helped the team stay strong.
The Hawks have made it far in the playoffs. They reached the Eastern Conference Finals in 2015 and 202110. Even though they haven’t won a championship in Atlanta, they keep trying.
Key Players in Hawks History
The Atlanta Hawks have a rich history. Dominique Wilkins and Trae Young are key players. They show how the Hawks have changed over time.
Dominique Wilkins' Impact
Dominique Wilkins was known as “The Human Highlight Film.” He played for the Hawks and was amazing. He scored a lot and was a leader.
In the 1985-1986 season, he was the top scorer. This made him one of the best players ever12.
Trae Young and the Modern Era
Trae Young is a star for the Hawks today. He is known for his amazing passing and shooting. He has made the Hawks exciting again.
Young has gotten better every year. He scores a lot and helps his teammates. He is a key player in the modern NBA.
Wilkins and Young are different but both great. Wilkins was known for his dunks. Young is great at shooting and making smart plays. Together, they show the Hawks’ history and legacy.
The Influence of Coaches
The Atlanta Hawks have a rich history. This history shows the big Hawks coaching impact on their journey. Coaches with a deep understanding of NBA team strategies have helped the Hawks a lot.
Alex Hannum was a key coach for the Hawks. He led them to their first championship in 1958. He won 471 games and lost 412, with a .533 winning percentage13.
Hannum was great at making NBA team strategies. He also did well with the Philadelphia 76ers later.
Red Auerbach’s coaching style was a big influence, even though he didn’t coach the Hawks. Auerbach won 938 games and lost 479, with a .659 winning percentage13. He was a pioneer, like setting up the first All-Black starting lineup in 1964.
Phil Jackson, though not with the Hawks, shows the power of great coaching. He won 1,155 games and lost 485, with 11 championships13. Coaches at the Hawks have learned from him to improve their tactics.
Billy Donovan is another example of a great coach. He has over 500 wins in college and the NBA14. His ability to adapt shows how important it is in the NBA.
The legacy of these coaches shows the big Hawks coaching impact. They have brought new tactics and made the team strong. Coaches at the Hawks have made a big mark in NBA history.
Atlanta Hawks' Brand and Identity
The Atlanta Hawks’ brand has changed a lot over time. It shows in their colors, logos, and how fans get involved. The Hawks have updated their look to show their growth and connect with fans. This change is seen in their merchandise and marketing.
Colors and Logos Over the Years
The Hawks have changed their colors many times. They started with blue and white. Now, they wear torch red, legacy yellow, infinity black, and granite gray1. These colors show the team’s strong spirit and never-give-up attitude.
The Hawks’ logos have also changed a lot. From simple designs to the bold logo today, each change marks an important moment. This shows how the Hawks have grown and connected with fans over time.
The Hawks are big on social media, like Instagram and Twitter. They share stories, quotes, and mentions that show how fans see them1. This helps the team show more of their brand and history online.
Retired Numbers and Hall of Fame Inductees
The Atlanta Hawks have a special place in the rafters. Here, the retired numbers honor the amazing skills and hard work of their players. Dominique Wilkins, known as the “Human Highlight Film,” is a great example. His exciting play earned him a spot in the Atlanta Hawks retired numbers and the NBA Hall of Fame.
Lesser-known players also have their numbers retired. Their contributions, though not as famous, were key to the team’s history.
The Hawks’ legacy goes beyond players. Coaches and teams like Al Attles and the Tennessee A&I Teams of 1957-1959 are also honored15. This mix of individual talent and team success shows the Hawks’ rich tradition.
Every retired jersey and Hall of Fame induction tells a story of hard work and excellence. These are not just numbers or names. They are symbols of the Hawks’ heroic quests and wisdom.
Superstars like Chris Chelios, who played 26 seasons in the NHL, also have their numbers retired. His achievements show the power of perseverance and greatness16.
Memorable Seasons and Playoff Runs
The Atlanta Hawks have had many great playoff runs. These have made them famous in the NBA.
The 2015 Playoff Breakthrough
The 2015 Hawks playoff run was a big deal for the team. They made it to the Eastern Conference Finals. This season brought back the fans’ excitement.
The team showed great teamwork and skill, even without MVPs17. This season is a key part of the Hawks’ history. It shows they can play at the NBA’s top level.
Deep Playoff Runs in the 1960s
The 1960s were great for the St. Louis Hawks. They made many deep playoff runs. This made them famous in NBA history.
Stars like Lenny Wilkens and Bob Pettit helped a lot. Their wins showed the Hawks’ lasting impact on basketball.
The 1960s were full of strategy and hard work for the Hawks. Their teamwork and amazing plays are unforgettable. These moments show the Hawks’ bravery and smart play.
State Farm Arena: Home of the Hawks
State Farm Arena is a key spot in Downtown Atlanta. It’s where the Atlanta Hawks play their home games. It also hosts many other events.
In 2018, it changed from Philips Arena to State Farm Arena. This change cost $192.5 million. It brought new, modern facilities for everyone18.
It’s also the first LEED certified NBA/NHL arena in the world. This shows its dedication to being green18.
The arena has hosted big events like the NBA All-Star Games in 2003 and 2021. This makes it a top spot for sports18.
For a closer look, there’s a 360-degree video tour. It’s led by COO Thad Sheely and Vice Chair Grant Hill. You can see it all on the video tour18.
From 1999 to now, the arena has seen lots of fans. For example, 20,425 people watched a Hawks game on May 2, 2008. And 20,596 people saw U2 on March 30, 2001. This shows how popular and diverse the venue is18.
Recent Trades and Team Developments
The Atlanta Hawks have made some big moves in the NBA. They picked Zaccharie Risacher with the No. 1 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. This makes him the fourth international player with no college background to top the draft19.
This move shows the Hawks want the best talent. They aim to get better and compete harder.
The Hawks traded Dejounte Murray to New Orleans for some great players20. They got two future first-round draft picks, forward Larry Nance Jr., and guard Dyson Daniels. This deal is expected to help the Hawks a lot in the future.
Looking at the Hawks’ draft history is interesting. They’ve drafted 131 players in Atlanta, but only 10 have won an NBA title21. This shows their challenges and successes in finding talent.
EJ Liddell, a 2022 second-round pick, played well in the G-League. He averaged 17.7 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks in 26 games20. His stats show he could be a big player for the Hawks.
The Atlanta Hawks are working hard to build a winning team. They’re making smart trades and developing players. Fans are excited to see what’s next for the Hawks.
Future Prospects and Young Talent
The Atlanta Hawks focus on the future. They work hard to grow young players. Dyson Daniels is a great example of their work22.
They also look for talent from the NBL Next Stars program. This program has helped six players get picked in the NBA draft22.
Conclusion
The Atlanta Hawks’ journey in the NBA is truly amazing. They started as the Tri-Cities Blackhawks and moved to Atlanta. They have shown strength and the ability to change, leaving a mark in basketball history.
Players like Dominique Wilkins and coaches have made the Hawks shine. They bring hope and excitement to fans everywhere.
The Hawks have had many great seasons and playoff runs. They remember the 1960s and the 2015 season well. Players like Dikembe Mutombo have also made a big impact.
Mutombo was the 4th pick in 1991 and became an 8-time All-Star24. His number 55 jersey is in the rafters, showing his hard work and defense.
The Atlanta Hawks have a legacy full of achievements and moments. They are proud of their Atlanta roots but are loved worldwide. Fans feel united and proud.
The Hawks keep inspiring people with their hard work and talent. They show us the importance of never giving up. Their story is inspiring and keeps them among the NBA’s greatest.
FAQ
When was the Atlanta Hawks franchise established?
The Atlanta Hawks started in 1946 as the Buffalo Bisons.
What were the early names of the Atlanta Hawks before they became an NBA team?
First, they were the Buffalo Bisons. Then, they became the Tri-Cities Blackhawks.
When did the Hawks win their first NBA Championship?
They won in 1958 while in St. Louis.
Who were some notable players during the St. Louis Hawks era?
Bob Pettit was key in their 1958 win.
Why did the Hawks move to Atlanta?
They moved in 1968 for a better market and location.
Who is considered a franchise icon of the Atlanta Hawks?
Dominique Wilkins is a big name. He’s known as ‘The Human Highlight Film.’
Which modern player is representing the new era of the Hawks?
Trae Young is the new face of the Hawks.
How has the Atlanta Hawks’ visual identity evolved over the years?
The Hawks’ look has changed a lot. This includes new colors and logos. It shows the team’s growth and its effect on fans.
Which players have had their jerseys retired by the Atlanta Hawks?
The Hawks have retired jerseys of many legends. Their contributions are honored.
Where do the Hawks play their home games?
They play at State Farm Arena in Downtown Atlanta. It’s a big spot for fun and community events.
What was a significant achievement for the Hawks in the 2015 season?
In 2015, they made it to the Eastern Conference Finals. It was a big win for them.
What were some key achievements of the Hawks in the 1960s?
The 1960s were good for the Hawks. They had deep playoff runs, showing their spirit.
How does the Atlanta Hawks franchise approach team development and future prospects?
The Hawks focus on young talent. They aim to build a strong team for the future.
Source Links
- Atlanta Hawks – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atlanta_Hawks
- Top 10 Atlanta Hawks Players Of All Time – The Most 10 Of Everything – https://www.themost10.com/top-10-atlanta-hawks-players-of-all-time/
- Best Atlanta Hawks Players of All Time – https://sports.betmgm.ca/en/blog/nba/best-atlanta-hawks-players-all-time-bm20/
- Atlanta Hawks guard Dejounte Murray reflects on trade rumors, history on MLK Day – https://andscape.com/features/atlanta-hawks-guard-dejounte-murray-reflects-on-trade-rumors-history-on-mlk-day/
- NBA’s Greatest Players in History: Dominique Wilkins | Basketball.com.au – https://www.basketball.com.au/news/greatest-players-in-nba-history-dominique-wilkins
- Pete Maravich – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pete_Maravich
- Atlanta Hawks NBA Profile: Five things you need to know | Basketball.com.au – https://www.basketball.com.au/news/atlanta-hawks-nba-profile-five-things-you-need-to-know
- Atlanta Hawks at 50: The team’s history through the lens of Scott Cunningham – https://www.atlantamagazine.com/news-culture-articles/atlanta-hawks-at-50-the-teams-history-through-the-lens-of-scott-cunningham/
- Atlanta Hawks – https://www.nba.com/hawks/heritagehall
- Atlanta Hawks all-time roster – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atlanta_Hawks_all-time_roster
- Atlanta Hawks Career Leaders | Basketball-Reference.com – https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/ATL/leaders_career.html
- The NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team, ranked – https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/33297498/the-nba-75th-anniversary-team-ranked-where-76-basketball-legends-check-our-list
- NBA 75: From Red to Phil to Pop, what does it take to be the cream of the coaching crop? – https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/3047259/2022/01/24/nba-75-from-red-to-phil-to-pop-what-does-it-take-to-be-the-cream-of-the-coaching-crop/
- Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame announces 2025 finalists – https://www.nba.com/news/naismith-basketball-hall-of-fame-announces-2025-finalists
- The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame :: Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Class of 2019 Announcement presented by Haggar Clothing Company – https://www.hoophall.com/news/naismith-memorial-basketball-hall-of-fame-class-of-2019-announcement-presented-by-haggar-clothing-company/
- Chelios to have ‘dream come true’ when hometown Blackhawks retire his No. 7 | NHL.com – https://www.nhl.com/news/chris-chelios-to-have-his-number-retired-by-chicago-blackhawks
- How will a 2024 NBA title affect the legacies of Ant, Luka, Tatum and Haliburton? – https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/40187191/2024-nba-playoffs-anthony-edwards-luka-doncic-jayson-tatum-tyrese-haliburton-legacies
- State Farm Arena – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/State_Farm_Arena
- Every No. 1 NBA draft pick since the NBA/ABA merger – https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/37881174/nba-draft-every-top-pick-number-1-all
- Former Ohio State star EJ Liddell traded to the Atlanta Hawks – https://247sports.com/article/former-ohio-state-basketball-star-ej-liddell-traded-to-the-atlanta-hawks-233369418/
- Cunningham: With title, Horford will stand alone among Atlanta-era Hawks draft picks – https://www.ajc.com/sports/mike-check-blog/with-nba-title-al-horford-will-stand-alone-among-atlanta-era-hawks-draft-picks/3I27CPXH2ZBTROZJP2YEVSOLMI/
- Young ‘menace’ proving Hawks DNA runs in rising star’s family – https://soaringdownsouth.com/dash-daniels-dyson-hawks-nbl
- Will BYU-bound AJ Dybantsa be the No. 1 overall pick in 2026 NBA Draft? – https://www.sltrib.com/sports/byu-cougars/2025/01/23/aj-dybantsa-has-some-competition/
- Dikembe Mutombo – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dikembe_Mutombo