The Top 10 Atlanta Hawks of All Time

The Atlanta Hawks franchise has a long and fascinating history that stretches back to its beginnings as the Tri-Cities Blackhawks in 1946 before eventually relocating to St. Louis and finally Atlanta. Throughout those decades, the organization has featured some of the most talented players in NBA history—from dominant big men who controlled the paint to electrifying scorers who thrilled fans with their athleticism.

While the Hawks have only captured one NBA championship (1958) during their time in St. Louis, the franchise has consistently produced All-Stars, Hall of Fame players, and some of the most exciting basketball moments in league history. From the dominance of Bob Pettit, to the scoring brilliance of Dominique Wilkins, to defensive specialists like Mookie Blaylock, the Hawks have built a legacy filled with unforgettable players.

This list ranks the Top 10 Atlanta Hawks players of all time, focusing on players whose impact on the franchise was greatest during their tenure with the team. Longevity, production, leadership, and historical impact all play a role in the rankings.

10. Tree Rollins

Wayne “Tree” Rollins was one of the most important defensive anchors in Atlanta Hawks history. Standing 7 feet tall with long arms and exceptional timing, Rollins became one of the most intimidating rim protectors of the late 1970s and 1980s. Drafted by the Hawks in the first round of the 1977 NBA Draft, Rollins quickly developed into the defensive backbone of the team.

Rollins was never known for flashy offensive numbers, but his value to the Hawks came from his ability to control the paint defensively. During an era when dominant centers like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Moses Malone ruled the NBA, Rollins consistently held his own against the league’s elite big men.

Over 13 seasons with the Hawks (1977–1991), Rollins became the franchise’s all-time leader in blocked shots and one of the most respected defensive centers in the league. He was selected to the NBA All-Defensive Second Team in 1983 and 1984, recognition of the massive defensive impact he had on the Hawks during their competitive 1980s playoff runs.

Rollins’ toughness and defensive presence helped stabilize the Hawks during the Dominique Wilkins era. While offensive stars often get the spotlight, teams cannot win without defensive anchors, and Rollins provided exactly that for more than a decade.

Lionel Hollins vs Tree Rollins NBA fight 1982 ECFR game 2

9. Doc Rivers

Before becoming one of the most recognizable coaches in modern NBA history, Doc Rivers was an outstanding point guard and floor leader for the Atlanta Hawks. Rivers joined the Hawks in 1983 after being drafted by the San Antonio Spurs and quickly developed into one of the team’s most reliable players.

Rivers was known for his toughness, basketball intelligence, and leadership. Unlike flashy scoring point guards, Rivers excelled at controlling the tempo of the game and making sure the Hawks’ offense ran smoothly. His ability to distribute the ball and defend opposing guards made him one of the most complete point guards in the Eastern Conference during the mid-1980s.

His best season came in 1986-87, when Rivers averaged 12.8 points, 10.0 assists, and 3.1 rebounds per game, leading the Hawks to one of the best seasons in franchise history. That year he was named to the NBA All-Star Game and finished among the league leaders in assists.

Rivers was also a key contributor during Atlanta’s intense playoff battles with the Boston Celtics in the late 1980s. His leadership and defensive intensity helped guide a Hawks team that featured stars like Dominique Wilkins and Kevin Willis.

Although his coaching career eventually overshadowed his playing days, Rivers’ time as Atlanta’s floor general was vital to the franchise’s success during one of its most competitive eras.

Doc Rivers Highlights – Atlanta Hawks [HD]

8. Kevin Willis

Kevin Willis was one of the most physically imposing players in Atlanta Hawks history and one of the most durable big men the NBA has ever seen. Drafted by the Hawks in the first round of the 1984 NBA Draft, Willis immediately became a major part of the team’s frontcourt alongside Dominique Wilkins.

Standing 7 feet tall and weighing over 240 pounds, Willis combined strength with surprising athleticism. His ability to rebound, score inside, and defend multiple frontcourt positions made him a cornerstone of Atlanta’s playoff teams during the 1980s.

During his 10 seasons with the Hawks (1984–1994), Willis averaged 14.5 points and 10 rebounds per game, demonstrating his consistent impact on both ends of the floor. His rebounding ability made him one of the most reliable interior players in the Eastern Conference.

Willis reached the peak of his career in the 1991-92 season, when he averaged 18.3 points and 15.5 rebounds per game, earning his first and only NBA All-Star selection.

Beyond the numbers, Willis provided toughness and physicality that helped Atlanta compete with powerhouse teams like the Detroit Pistons and Boston Celtics. His longevity in the NBA—playing until age 44—also speaks to his incredible durability and conditioning.

Willis remains one of the most productive and respected big men in Hawks history.

Kevin Willis: Career Mixtape

7. Al Horford

Al Horford became the centerpiece of the Atlanta Hawks during one of the most successful stretches in the franchise’s modern history. Drafted third overall in the 2007 NBA Draft, Horford arrived in Atlanta fresh off back-to-back NCAA championships with the Florida Gators and quickly proved he was ready to contribute at the NBA level.

Horford brought a rare combination of intelligence, versatility, and leadership to the Hawks. Unlike many traditional big men, he could score in the post, hit mid-range jumpers, rebound effectively, and defend multiple positions.

During his nine seasons in Atlanta (2007–2016), Horford averaged 14.3 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game. More importantly, he became the leader of a Hawks team that made the playoffs eight consecutive seasons.

Horford earned four All-Star selections while playing in Atlanta and was named Third-Team All-NBA in 2011. His leadership helped guide the Hawks to the 2015 Eastern Conference Finals, one of the deepest playoff runs in franchise history.

Horford’s professionalism, consistency, and team-first mentality made him one of the most respected players to ever wear a Hawks uniform.

this Al Horford highlight reel goes way too hard

6. Mookie Blaylock

Mookie Blaylock was one of the best defensive guards of the 1990s and arguably the greatest perimeter defender in Atlanta Hawks history. Acquired by the Hawks in 1992, Blaylock quickly became the defensive engine of the team.

Blaylock’s quick hands, anticipation, and relentless defensive pressure made him one of the most feared defensive guards in the NBA. He led the league in steals twice (1997 and 1998) and remains one of only a handful of players in NBA history to accomplish that feat in consecutive seasons.

During his seven seasons with the Hawks, Blaylock averaged 13.3 points, 6.7 assists, and 2.3 steals per game. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses often sparked Atlanta’s transition attack.

Blaylock was selected to six NBA All-Defensive Teams, including two First-Team selections, cementing his reputation as one of the elite defenders of his era.

His combination of scoring, playmaking, and defense helped the Hawks remain competitive throughout the 1990s and made him one of the most complete point guards in franchise history.

Mookie Blaylock – D Lock

5. Cliff Hagan

Cliff Hagan was one of the most important players in the early history of the Hawks franchise and played a major role in delivering the team’s only NBA championship.

Hagan joined the Hawks in 1956 and quickly formed a dominant duo with Bob Pettit. Together they became one of the most dangerous offensive combinations in the NBA.

Hagan’s scoring ability and versatility helped the Hawks reach multiple NBA Finals appearances. His greatest achievement came in 1958, when the Hawks defeated the Boston Celtics to win the NBA Championship.

During his career with the Hawks, Hagan averaged 20.5 points per game and was selected to six NBA All-Star teams.

His contributions to the franchise were instrumental in establishing the Hawks as one of the top teams in the league during the late 1950s and early 1960s.

Cliff Hagan highlight video

4. John Drew

John Drew remains one of the most underrated scorers in Atlanta Hawks history. Selected in the 7th round of the 1974 NBA Draft, Drew quickly proved to be one of the biggest steals in franchise history.

Drew possessed smooth scoring ability and exceptional athleticism. He was particularly dangerous in transition and had a knack for attacking the basket.

During his eight seasons with Atlanta, Drew averaged 21.2 points and 7.5 rebounds per game, remarkable numbers for a player drafted so late.

He was selected to the NBA All-Star Game in 1980 and consistently ranked among the top scorers in the league.

Drew’s scoring ability helped keep the Hawks competitive throughout the late 1970s and early 1980s.

Remembering John Drew

3. Lou Hudson

Lou Hudson was one of the most consistent scorers in Atlanta Hawks history and one of the smoothest shooting guards of his era.

Nicknamed “Sweet Lou,” Hudson possessed one of the most effortless jump shots in NBA history. His ability to score from anywhere on the floor made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

During his 11 seasons with the Hawks, Hudson averaged 22.0 points per game and earned six All-Star selections.

Hudson finished his Hawks career with over 16,000 points, making him one of the franchise’s all-time scoring leaders.

Lou Hudson | Hall of Fame Career Retrospective

2. Bob Pettit

Bob Pettit was the first true superstar in Hawks history and one of the greatest power forwards the NBA has ever seen.

Pettit dominated the league throughout the 1950s and early 1960s, winning two NBA MVP awards and leading the Hawks to multiple Finals appearances.

His greatest moment came in Game 6 of the 1958 NBA Finals, when he scored 50 points to defeat the Boston Celtics and deliver the Hawks their only NBA championship.

Pettit was selected to 11 All-Star teams and 10 All-NBA First Teams, establishing himself as one of the greatest players of his generation.

Bob Pettit Highlights | The Bombardier from Baton Rouge

1. Dominique Wilkins

When people think of the Atlanta Hawks, the first name that usually comes to mind is Dominique Wilkins. Known as “The Human Highlight Film,” Wilkins was one of the most exciting players in NBA history.

Wilkins averaged 26.5 points per game during his Hawks career and became one of the greatest scorers of the 1980s.

His legendary Game 7 duel with Larry Bird in the 1988 Eastern Conference Semifinals remains one of the greatest playoff performances ever.

Wilkins finished his Hawks career as the franchise’s all-time leading scorer and remains the most iconic player in team history.

Dominique Wilkins CRAZY Dunk Reel! Over 10 Minutes Of Highlights