Tom Cousins may not be a household name when it comes to the Atlanta Hawks, but his impact on the team and the city of Atlanta is undeniable. As the original owner of the Hawks, Cousins played a crucial role in shaping the team’s identity and inspiring some of its greatest players. His legacy lives on even after his passing at the age of 93.
Cousins’ ownership stint may have been short, but his influence was much bigger than just being a part of the team. He was a visionary and a true leader who left a lasting impact on the Atlanta community.
Born in 1929 in Atlanta, Georgia, Cousins grew up with a passion for sports. He played football and basketball in high school and went on to play football at the University of Georgia. After graduating, he served in the United States Navy during the Korean War before returning to Atlanta to start his career in real estate.
In the 1960s, Cousins founded Cousins Properties, a real estate development and investment firm. He quickly became one of the most successful businessmen in Atlanta, with his company responsible for developing some of the city’s most iconic buildings, including the CNN Center and the Omni Coliseum, which was the home of the Atlanta Hawks.
But Cousins’ love for sports didn’t end with his own athletic career. He was a passionate supporter of the Atlanta sports scene and was determined to bring a professional basketball team to the city. In 1968, he led a group of investors who purchased the St. Louis Hawks and relocated them to Atlanta, making them the first professional sports team in the city.
Under Cousins’ ownership, the Hawks quickly became a force to be reckoned with in the NBA. He was known for his hands-on approach and was often seen sitting courtside at games, cheering on his team. His dedication and passion for the game were infectious, and it inspired the players to give their all on the court.
During his ownership, Cousins brought in some of the greatest players in Hawks history, including Dominique Wilkins, Lou Hudson, Pete Maravich, and Dikembe Mutombo. These players became the backbone of the team and helped establish the Hawks as a top contender in the league.
But Cousins’ impact on the Hawks went beyond just the players on the court. He was also a pioneer in promoting diversity and equality in sports. In the 1970s, he hired the first African American coach in NBA history, Lenny Wilkens, and was a strong advocate for equal opportunities for all players, regardless of their race or background.
Cousins’ influence extended beyond the basketball court as well. He was a philanthropist and a community leader, known for his generous contributions to various charities and organizations in Atlanta. He was also a vocal supporter of civil rights and played a significant role in desegregating the city’s public schools.
In 2002, Cousins sold the Hawks to a group of investors, but his legacy continued to live on. The team’s new home, the State Farm Arena, was named after him in honor of his contributions to the franchise and the city.
On November 15, 2021, Tom Cousins passed away at the age of 93. His death was mourned by the entire Atlanta community, and tributes poured in from all over the world. His impact on the city and the Hawks will never be forgotten, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
In conclusion, Tom Cousins may not have been a player or a coach, but his role in shaping the Atlanta Hawks and the city of Atlanta is immeasurable. He was a true leader, a visionary, and a pioneer who will always be remembered as the original owner of the Atlanta Hawks. His passion for sports, his dedication to his community, and his commitment to promoting equality will continue to inspire and motivate others for years to come. Rest in peace, Tom Cousins. Your legacy lives on.