With only a 3% chance, the Hawks' leap to the top pick marks a historic moment and a significant boost for their rebuilding efforts.
On May 13, 2024, the Atlanta Hawks experienced a stunning turn of fortune in the NBA draft lottery, clinching the No. 1 pick despite having just a 3% chance, marking a significant shift in their rebuilding efforts after a challenging season where they finished with a 36-46 record. This unexpected victory has been a beacon of hope for a team still recovering from a season hampered by injuries, including a significant one to star guard Trae Young, who played only 54 games.
The Hawks' ascent from a projected 10th pick to the top of the draft is the second-largest jump in NBA lottery history, only surpassed by the Orlando Magic's leap in 1993. The Pistons, who endured a dismal season, were left astonished as they fell to the fifth pick, despite having one of the highest probabilities for the No. 1 spot.
Historically, this is the first time the Hawks have secured the No. 1 pick since 1975, when they chose David Thompson, who ultimately signed with the ABA, marking a notable moment in NBA history. The Hawks' draft history has been mixed, with significant picks like Marvin Williams in 2005 and the pivotal 2018 draft where they selected and traded Luka Doncic for Trae Young, shaping the franchise's current core.
The impact of securing the No. 1 pick cannot be understated for the Hawks, as it offers them a chance to draft a transformational player who could elevate the team's performance and competitiveness in the Eastern Conference. As the Hawks prepare for a potentially franchise-altering selection, the excitement and anticipation among fans and sports enthusiasts are palpable.
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2024/05/13, picture citation source Associated Press