Jon Koncak

Lore & Background

Koncak spent ten seasons with the Hawks (1985–1995), mainly in a reserve role, then concluded his career with the Orlando Magic. He retired in 1996 with career totals of 3,520 points and 3,856 rebounds. Koncak received a six-year, $13 million contract from the Hawks in 1989 – an unprecedented total for a reserve. Since he was a restricted free agent at the time, the Atlanta Hawks matched this offer from the Detroit Pistons. As a result, he earned the derisive nickname Jon Contract.

In Their Own Story

The air inside the Spectrum Center was thick with humidity and anticipation as the original Hornets took the floor. Koncak stood under the basket, jersey number 32 soaking up the sweat of a grueling quarter. He watched the opposing center drive hard toward the rim, feet planted wide, ready to absorb the contact. With a roar that echoed off the rafters, he met the charge, boxing out with a ferocity that silenced the crowd for a split second before erupting into cheers. It was moments like these that defined his legacy: unyielding defense and a heart as large as his frame.

Reader's Guide

Koncak never played for the Charlotte Hornets. He played for the Atlanta Hawks (1985–1995) and the Orlando Magic. He wore number 32 for the Hawks, but his jersey number for the Magic is not specified in the source. His college career was at SMU.

Did You Know?

• Koncak was not on the 1984 Olympic team; he never won an Olympic gold medal.
• On February 23, 2008, SMU retired Koncak's jersey.
• Koncak is an Eagle Scout.