High Energy and Length on Display as Hawks Prepare for Preseason Opener

The NBA preseason is here, and the Atlanta Hawks are gearing up to open their schedule Monday night on the road against the Houston Rockets. The team wrapped up another spirited practice Sunday morning at the Emory Sports Medicine Complex, where the energy was high, communication was sharp, and the team’s new look was on full display.

Head coach Quinn Snyder spoke with reporters following practice, emphasizing that while the preseason offers a chance to compete, his focus remains on growth and evaluation.

“Define result,” Snyder said when asked how much the final score matters. “There are lots of different results you’re able to evaluate over the course of a game. Some of it depends on who plays, how long they play, and what you’re trying to accomplish. Winning is always great, but how you view it is important.”

Snyder explained that the Hawks are still in the learning phase, using the preseason as an opportunity to test different rotations and lineups.

“We’re not to the point where we’re tweaking—we’re to the point where we’re learning,” he said. “This is a good opportunity to put different lineups out there, see how guys play together, and learn from that process. It really starts in live competition, but it’s been happening every day in practice.”

Sunday’s session reflected that approach, as players brought strong effort and energy to every drill. The intensity ramped up during scrimmage portions, where the Hawks’ length and versatility were noticeable right away. With new additions and a deeper roster, Atlanta showcased a lineup capable of switching defensively, attacking the paint, and pushing the pace in transition—qualities that could pay off late in games and deep into the season.

That competitive edge carried over into the post-practice routine. Trae Young, Luke Kennard, and Keaton Wallace—the latter on a two-way contract—were among the players taking part in shooting challenges after the session wrapped. Snyder said those battles have become a fun and valuable part of the team’s daily rhythm.

“Those moments are just another way for them to connect,” Snyder said. “You’ve got guys who love to compete. We like seeing that—it’s all good competition.”

As the Hawks prepare for their preseason opener in Houston, there’s a sense of optimism surrounding the group. The mix of veteran leadership, youthful energy, and added size gives Atlanta the tools to be more dynamic on both ends of the floor. With camp energy running high and chemistry building fast, the Hawks look ready to make their mark as the new season begins.