FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 15, 2016 CONTACT: Garin Narain, Janet Smith or Jelani Downing, Hawks Communications (404) 878-3800 HAWKS STATEMENTS REGARDING THE PASSING OF CRAIG SAGER ATLANTA, GA - Statement from Hawks CEO Steve Koonin on behalf of the Atlanta Hawks Basketball Club: “We are tremendously saddened by the passing of Craig Sager. I was honored to work with him during my time at TNT. He was a great broadcaster and friend. Craig was an essential part of the NBA experience for fans as he brought the game and wonderful stories of our stars into the living rooms of so many through his outstanding and always entertain- ing reports.” “Craig will always hold a special place within our Hawks family as he chose to call our great city home and was a regular at Philips Arena along with his beautiful family. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his entire family, friends and fans.” Statement from President of Basketball Operations/Head Coach Mike Budenholzer : “Craig was a great ambassador for our game and someone we will all truly miss. He had the unique ability to connect with people and it showed in his work and passion for life. I'm fortunate to have been able to work with him and call him a friend.” “On behalf of the team, coaches and front office, we extend our deepest condolences to his family.” The Hawks will pay tribute to Sager with a moment of silence and special video presentation prior to Saturday’s game at Philips Arena versus the Charlotte Hornets. The game will begin at 7:30 p.m. #TrueToAtlanta With a bold identity and strong new ownership, the Atlanta Hawks Basketball Club and Philips Arena remain committed to making Atlantans proud on the court and off. The 2014-15 Southeast Division Champions, the Hawks have made the postseason in nine consecutive seasons and reached the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in franchise history in 2015. Off the court, the organization has built a culture of inclusion, diversity and innovation, all with a touch of Southern Hospitality. It continues into the community where the organization builds bridges through basketball, whether by constructing and refurbishing courts in Atlanta neighborhoods, providing scholarships to our basketball camps, or surprising and de- lighting our fans with unique Atlanta Hawks experiences. Atlanta Hawks Membership, which includes your seat for every home game for the 2016- 17 regular season games, is on sale now at www.hawks.com/membership or by calling 866-715-1500! For more information on the Hawks, log on to www.hawks.com today or follow us on twitter @ATLHawks. # # # .