The Atlanta Hawks are one of the NBA’s oldest franchises, with roots tracing back to the Tri-Cities Blackhawks in 1946. Over the decades, the team has seen numerous ups and downs, but throughout it all, a core group of standout players has helped define the franchise. Here’s a look at some of greatest players ever to wear a Hawks jersey.
1. Dominique Wilkins
Known as “The Human Highlight Film,” Dominique Wilkins is the most iconic player in Hawks history. A nine-time All-Star and one of the most prolific scorers of the 1980s and early ’90s, Wilkins brought both flash and firepower to Atlanta. His high-flying dunks and fearless offensive play made him a fan favorite and solidified his place in the Basketball Hall of Fame.
2. Bob Pettit
Before the team moved to Atlanta, Bob Pettit was the star of the St. Louis Hawks. He remains one of the most dominant power forwards in league history. Pettit was a two-time MVP and led the Hawks to their only NBA championship in 1958. His combination of skill, toughness, and leadership set the foundation for the franchise’s early success.
3. Al Horford
The cornerstone of the Hawks during their resurgence in the late 2000s and early 2010s, Al Horford brought consistent excellence on both ends of the court. A five-time All-Star (four with Atlanta), Horford was known for his versatility, basketball IQ, and professionalism. He was a key figure in the Hawks’ 60-win season in 2014–15.
4. Joe Johnson
“ISO Joe” was the offensive engine for the Hawks during much of the 2000s. A seven-time All-Star (six with Atlanta), Johnson had one of the smoothest scoring arsenals in the league. He led the team to six straight playoff appearances and gave Atlanta its first taste of consistent postseason basketball in years.
5. Dikembe Mutombo
Though his time in Atlanta was relatively short, Dikembe Mutombo made a major impact. The four-time Defensive Player of the Year (two with the Hawks) was a dominant force in the paint. His shot-blocking and rebounding anchored Atlanta’s defense during the late ’90s, and his finger-wagging celebrations became legendary.
6. Lou Hudson
A silky-smooth scorer from the 1960s and ’70s, “Sweet Lou” Hudson was a six-time All-Star with the Hawks. Known for his polished midrange game and clutch shooting, Hudson averaged over 20 points per game for most of his Atlanta career. He remains one of the most underrated scorers in franchise history.
7. Cliff Hagan
Another St. Louis-era star, Cliff Hagan paired with Bob Pettit to form a lethal inside-outside combination. A five-time All-Star and a Hall of Famer, Hagan was instrumental in the Hawks’ success during the 1950s and early ’60s. His versatility and competitiveness left a lasting impression on the franchise.
8. Mookie Blaylock
An elite defender and capable scorer, Mookie Blaylock was the heartbeat of the Hawks in the 1990s. He led the league in steals twice and was named to the All-Defensive Team six times. Blaylock also holds the franchise record for most three-pointers made, showing his value on both ends of the floor.
9. Josh Smith
A polarizing figure but undeniably talented, Josh Smith was a high-flying forward who spent nine seasons with the Hawks. Known for his shot-blocking and athletic dunks, Smith could impact the game in many ways—even if his shot selection sometimes drew criticism. At his best, he was a true two-way force.
10. Trae Young
Still early in his career, Trae Young has already made a huge impact. A two-time All-Star and one of the league’s premier offensive playmakers, Young led Atlanta to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2021. With his deep shooting, flashy passing, and fearless attitude, he’s quickly becoming the face of the franchise’s future.