Hawks sign free agent Jackson

Posted 4:58PM on Friday 3rd October 2003 ( 21 years ago )

ATLANTA - The Atlanta Hawks signed Stephen Jackson, the free agent they had pursued for weeks, in time for Jackson to watch the team's first practice Friday. Jackson, who can play small forward and shooting guard, will join practice Monday and is expected to compete for a starting job. The 6-foot-8 Jackson played a key role for the San Antonio Spurs in their drive to the NBA championship last season. Jackson ranked third on the team in scoring in the playoffs with 12.8 points per game. ``Obviously we are pleased to add Stephen to our team,'' said Hawks general manager Billy Knight Friday, one day after he told reporters he ``really, really would like to have'' Jackson. ``He's a proven winner who was a major contributor on San Antonio's team last season, and he has the versatility to play both wing positions for us,'' Knight said. ``He has tremendous growth potential and we are ecstatic to add a player of his caliber to our team.'' After trading Glenn Robinson in a cost-cutting offseason move, the Hawks are looking for a new starting small forward. Jackson, 23, is a third-year pro who set a career high with his averages of 11.8 points, 3.6 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.6 steals last season. He was a top reserve with the Spurs but hopes to land a starting job with the Falcons. ``This is where I wanted to be from the beginning,'' said Jackson, who watched Friday's practice with Hawks officials. ``Hopefully this is the start of great things for me and the Hawks organization. I want to contribute right away and help this team win.'' Added Jackson: ``I appreciate the time I spent with the Spurs, where I learned a great deal from playing with guys like Tim (Duncan) and David (Robinson), and I hope to bring those same experiences to Atlanta.'' For his career, Jackson has made 32 percent of his 3-point shots. Terms of Jackson's contract were not released by the team.

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