King Dethroned

I hadn’t plan on doing Atlanta Hawks game recaps because of the 82 game season. It’s too many games and they play several times week. My plan is to recap only the games I attend (see “Welcome to the Highlight Factory”), but from time-to-time I’ll recap a Baby Bird’s game I saw on TV were the team shows spunk and effort. Last night was one of those games. The Atlanta Hawks traveled to the Midwest to take on the Cleveland Cavaliers. Unfortunately, because I watch Prison Break on Monday nights, I only saw the last eight minutes of the game. When I flipped to the game, the Birds were down 10 points and all seemed lost, until the team stepped up and snatched a victory from the clutches of defeat, in an overtime thriller. After their 104 – 95 victory, the Hawks are now 3 – 1 on the season. Game balls go to Tyronn Lue and Joe Johnson. Lue hit three big shots and grabbed a key rebound to send the game to overtime, while Johnson dominated offensively to secure the win. Lue finished with 19 points and 11 assist. Johnson finished with 25 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists.

I realize this is an early season win, but this is a big statement game for the young Hawks. They won with solid defense, consistent shooting, and hustle. It’s positive reinforcement of what Coach Woodson stresses during practice. Additionally, wins like this gives the team creditability and confidence.