Atlanta Hawks Make Surprise Visit to South Gwinnett High

The Atlanta Hawks, cheerleaders and Harry the Hawk surprised over 1,500 students today at South Gwinnett High School with an open practice.

Students and teachers from the high school and neighboring Britt Elementary School were invited to attend an academic rally to celebrate their high achievement during this school year when Principal Eric Thigpen and South Gwinnett alum and new Hawks guard Lou Williams announced the Hawks were taking over, according to an Atlanta Hawks press release.

‘The Voice of the Hawks’ Steve Holman, Harry the Hawk and the Hawks Cheerleaders entertained the crowd, giving out rally towels and performing dance routines as Head Coach Larry Drew took the team through practice before closing with a special scrimmage just for those in attendance.

Williams starred at South Gwinnett High School where he was a four-time All-State Selection (2001-05) and earned Georgia’s “Mr. Basketball” award as both a junior and senior (2004-05). As a junior, he led the team to a 5A state championship.

Mayor Kelly Kautz and councilman Mike Sabbagh were also in attendance.

"It was a treat for Britt Elementary and SGHS students with a GPA of 85 or higher from SGHS alumni and Hawks starter Lou Williams," Mayor Kautz wrote in a note to Snellville Patch. "Congratulations to all the students for their hardwork and thank your to Principal Thigpen, Lou Williams and the Hawks organization for making this possible."

The Hawks open the regular season at Philips Arena on Friday, Nov. 2nd at 7:30 p.m. versus the Houston Rockets.

The Atlanta Hawks, a member of the National Basketball Association since 1949, play in the Southeast Division, along with the Charlotte Bobcats, Miami Heat, Orlando Magic and Washington Wizards.