The Atlanta Hawks have retired five numbers in franchise history since becoming a pro team all the way back in 1949. The organization has racked up over 2,700 wins and won one NBA title in 1958.
That 1958 Hawks team was coached by Alex Hannum and led in scoring by Bob Pettit, who averaged 24.6 points and 17.4 rebounds per game. Cliff Hagan was second on the team with averages of 19.9 points and 10.1 boards. The Hawks defeated the Boston Celtics in six games to capture the championship.
For this piece, let's take a look at all five of the numbers that are retired by the Hawks and the players that donned them.
No. 9 Bob Pettit
Bob Pettit averaged 26.4 points and 16.2 rebounds in 792 games with the Hawks. He was a Rookie of the Year, two-time MVP and 11-time All-Star with the Hawks. As we mentioned, Pettit captured one championship in 1958. He probably would have won Finals MVP if that award was given at that time.
Pettit put up 29.3 points and 17.0 rebounds against the Celtics. “Big Blue” was named a Hall of Famer in 1971.
No. 21 Dominique Wilkins
One of the greatest dunkers in NBA history, Dominique Wilkins put up 26.4 points, 6.9 rebounds and 1.4 steals in 882 games with the Hawks. He currently does TV for the team and has a statue outside State Farm Arena in the midst of one of his signature windmill dunks.
Wilkins made nine All-Star teams during his run with Atlanta.
No. 23 Lou Hudson
In 11 seasons with the Hawks, Lou Hudson averaged 22.0 points and 4.9 rebounds in 730 games.
The guard also played in six All-Star Games as a member of the franchise.
No. 44 Pete Maravich
“Pistol Pete” appeared in 302 games with the Hawks. He put up 24.3 points, 4.2 rebounds and 5.6 assists over four seasons.
Pete Maravich was named a Hall of Famer in 1987.
No. 55 Dikembe Mutombo
One of the top shot blockers of all time, Dikembe Mutombo averaged 11.9 points, 12.6 rebounds and 3.2 blocks in 343 games with the Hawks.
Dikembe was a four-time All-Star in Atlanta.
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