The Atlanta Hawks were sold to businessman Alex Meruelo in August; that sale was later terminated by the Atlanta Spirit Group, the Hawks' current owners, amid rumors that Meruelo did not have the assets necessary to make the sale happen. As such, it makes tons of sense that ASG is now spinning a yarn of commitment to the Hawks, and claiming it does not want to sell the team.
Michael Gearon, Jr. one of ASG's seven partners, told reporters on Friday that ASG was not looking to sell, saying "If somebody offers you something, you never know, but that's not my goal." Gearon also cited financial reasons as part of the Hawks' decision to not re-sign Jamal Crawford, said that the Hawks would be open to adding payroll to put them over the top,, and explained that the Hawks will receive revenue assistance under the NBA's new collective bargaining agreement.
Basically, the Hawks' ownership group is fully committed to the Hawks, and fully willing to contradict itself at any moment. Enjoy the season, Hawks fans!
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