Hawks, 2 other NBA teams fined for tampering

SAN ANTONIO -- The Atlanta Hawks and two other teams have been fined an undisclosed amount by the NBA for tampering.

A league spokesman says a memo was sent to teams informing them of the penalties, but didn't say which clubs were punished or provide the amount of the fines.

However, the Hawks say Monday they were one of them, saying that they "fully understand and respect the NBA's decision."

The team recently sent a letter to potential ticket-buyers promoting its chances of signing Chris Paul and Dwight Howard, who will become free agents on July 1.

Teams are not allowed to discuss their interest in players who are under contract to other teams.