Tom Cousins may not be a household name when it comes to NBA ownership, but his impact on the Atlanta Hawks franchise is undeniable. From the likes of Dominique Wilkins to Dikembe Mutombo, Cousins played a crucial role in bringing some of the greatest players to the Hawks and establishing them as a force to be reckoned with in the league. Sadly, Cousins passed away at the age of 93, leaving behind a legacy that will always be remembered in Atlanta and beyond.
Born in 1929 in Atlanta, Georgia, Cousins was a businessman and philanthropist who made his fortune in real estate. He was a true visionary, known for his entrepreneurial spirit and his passion for giving back to the community. But it was his love for basketball that led him to become the original owner of the Atlanta Hawks, a decision that would change the course of the franchise forever.
Cousins was not a typical sports owner, but his unconventional approach was what made him stand out. He was not just interested in the financial aspect of the team, but he cared deeply about the players and the community they represented. His impact was felt from the very first day of his ownership, and it continued to grow over the years.
One of the first major moves Cousins made was hiring Lou Hudson as the team’s first-ever general manager. This decision laid the foundation for the Hawks to become a competitive team in the league. Hudson’s basketball knowledge, combined with Cousins’ business acumen, proved to be a winning formula for the franchise.
But Cousins’ most significant contribution to the Hawks was his role in bringing Dominique Wilkins to Atlanta. Wilkins, also known as the “Human Highlight Film,” was a dynamic scorer and a fan favorite. Cousins recognized Wilkins’ talent and made sure that he remained a Hawk throughout his entire career. Wilkins became an icon in the city and is still considered one of the greatest players to wear a Hawks jersey.
Cousins also played a critical role in acquiring another legendary player, Pete Maravich, from the New Orleans Jazz. Maravich, who was known for his flashy and entertaining style of play, quickly became a fan favorite in Atlanta. He brought a new level of excitement to the franchise and helped elevate the Hawks to new heights. Maravich’s legendary status in the league would not have been possible without Cousins’ vision and support.
In addition to these iconic players, Cousins also played a significant role in bringing Dikembe Mutombo to the Hawks. Mutombo was a dominant force on the court and led the Hawks to multiple playoff appearances during his tenure. His trademark finger wag and his defensive prowess made him a beloved figure in the city of Atlanta.
But Cousins’ impact on the Hawks extended far beyond the players on the court. He was also a pioneer in promoting diversity and equality within the franchise, becoming the first NBA owner to hire an African American head coach, Lenny Wilkens. He also spearheaded various initiatives to give back to the community, including creating affordable housing for low-income families and supporting educational programs for underprivileged children.
Cousins’ tenure as the Hawks’ owner may have been short, but his influence on the franchise and the city of Atlanta will always be remembered. His leadership, vision, and passion for basketball allowed the Hawks to thrive and become a respected team in the NBA.
In his later years, Cousins remained a dedicated fan and continued to support the Hawks until his passing. His legacy will live on through the countless memories he helped create for the city, the players, and the fans. The mere mention of his name will bring a smile to the faces of those who had the privilege of knowing him and working with him.
Tom Cousins was more than just an owner; he was a true icon and a legend in the Atlanta Hawks family. He will be dearly missed, but his impact and contributions will forever be etched in the franchise’s history. Rest in peace, Tom Cousins – the original Hawk.
