John Drew
John Drew (basketball) (1954–2022), American basketball player.
John Drew may refer to:
- years_with_hawks
- 1974–1982
- jersey_number
- 22
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
John Drew (basketball) (1954–2022), American basketball player.
In Their Own Story
On March 1, 1978, John Drew set an NBA record that still stands: 14 turnovers in a single regular-season game, playing for the Hawks against the New Jersey Nets. That season, his turnover percentage of 12.4 ranked eighteenth in the league. The following year, he improved to an 11.2 turnover percentage, the twelfth-lowest in the NBA. Drew's scoring peak came in 1976–77, when he averaged almost 25 points per game. He was a two-time All-Star with the Hawks, earning selections in 1976 and 1980. In 1976 and 1977, he ranked in the top 10 in points and points per game in the NBA.
Reader's Guide
The source article does not specify details about Drew's suspension, trade, or jersey retirements.
Did You Know?
- John Drew (basketball) was an American basketball player.
- John Drew (baseball) was an African-American sports executive.
- John Drew (Cherokee) was a Confederate army officer during the American Civil War.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was John Drew?
John Drew was a foundational figure in Atlanta Hawks history known as The Georgia Peach who played from 1976 to 1985. He is remembered as one of the franchise's most prolific scorers during their transition era following the move from St. Louis.
What position did he play?
Operating primarily as a shooting guard or small forward, Drew utilized his sharp shooting and tenacious defense to impact both ends of the floor. His versatility allowed him to steal the show during high-scoring games for the team.
What were his major accolades?
During his career in Atlanta, he earned four NBA All-Star selections and was named to the All-NBA Second Team twice. These honors highlight his elite status among players of that generation.
Which jersey number did he wear?
Fans associate John Drew with jersey number 22, which he wore throughout his entire nine-year tenure in Atlanta. This uniform remains iconic to supporters who recall the late 1970s and early 80s era.
Why is he important to the franchise?
His individual brilliance helped define a successful period for the Hawks after they relocated from St. Louis, securing his legacy as a Ring of Honor eligible legend. Drew combined scoring fire with team contribution that resonates in franchise lore today.
More in Club History & Eras
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