ATLANTA — As one of the new faces in the Atlanta Hawks' ownership group, Grant Hill says he feels a mandate to "do something amazing" for the city.
Given the circumstances that led to the sale of the team, Hill knows that means more than just trying to bring a championship to Atlanta.
One year ago, the Hawks were reeling from racially charged comments made public from former owner Bruce Levenson and former general manager Danny Ferry. A group headed by Antony Ressler signed off on an agreement in April to purchase the team for $850 million.
Efforts to repair damage caused by the inflammatory comments included the Hawks' inaugural diversity symposium on Thursday. Hill, a seven-time NBA All-Star, says progress has been made but "scars take time to heal."
Hawks co-owner Hill: Racial healing in Atlanta has started
Atlanta Hawks Vice Chairman of the Board Grant Hill watches during an NBA basketball game against the Orlando Magic in Atlanta. AP/John Bazemore