Al Horford
The first Hawks draft pick to earn an All-Star berth since Kevin Willis.
Al Horford was selected by the Atlanta Hawks with the third overall pick in the 2007 NBA draft. He played nine seasons for the Hawks before signing with the Boston Celtics as a free agent in the 2016 offseason. During his time in Atlanta, Horford became a five-time NBA All-Star and was named to the NBA All-Rookie First Team in 2008. He was the first Hawks draft pick to earn an All-Star berth since Kevin Willis in 1992.
- Jersey Number (Atlanta)
- 15
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Horford was drafted third overall by the Hawks in 2007 and signed his rookie scale contract on July 9. As a rookie, he was the only player unanimously selected to the NBA All-Rookie First Team and was runner-up for Rookie of the Year. In 2009–10, he became the first Hawks draft pick to earn an All-Star berth since Kevin Willis in 1992. On November 1, 2010, Horford signed a five-year, $60 million contract extension with the Hawks. He was named Third-Team All-NBA in 2010–11. Horford played nine seasons in Atlanta before signing with the Celtics as a free agent in the 2016 offseason.
In Their Own Story
On January 13, 2015, Horford recorded his first career triple-double with 21 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists in a 105–87 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers. Earlier that season, on December 22, 2014, he was named Eastern Conference Player of the Week for games played from December 15 to December 21. Horford earned the award for just the second time in his career. In 2014–15, he played in 76 regular season games, the most since the 2010–11 season.
Reader's Guide
For Hawks fans, Horford's number 15 jersey represents a period of consistent playoff contention. He helped the Hawks reach the second round of the playoffs in 2009, 2010, and 2011. In 2012, he missed 55 games due to a torn left pectoral muscle but returned for the playoffs. Horford averaged a career-high 17.4 points and 10.2 rebounds in 2012–13. He recorded 43 double-doubles that season, including one 20/20 game. On February 27, 2013, he scored a career-high 34 points in a 102–91 victory over the Utah Jazz.
Did You Know?
- Horford was the only player unanimously selected to the NBA All-Rookie First Team in 2008.
- He was the first Hawks draft pick to earn an All-Star berth since Kevin Willis in 1992.
- On January 13, 2015, Horford recorded his first career triple-double with 21 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists.
- Horford scored a career-high 34 points on February 27, 2013, against the Utah Jazz.
- He signed a five-year, $60 million contract extension with the Hawks on November 1, 2010.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Al Horford to the Atlanta Hawks?
He served as a cornerstone player drafted in 2007 who provided essential stability and leadership during the franchise's rebuilding years.
What jersey number did he wear in Atlanta?
Horford wore number 15 throughout his tenure with the team, making it one of the most recognizable numbers in recent Hawks history.
When did Al Horford leave the franchise?
He departed via free agency in July 2016 to join the Boston Celtics after nearly a decade with the organization.
What skills defined his play for Atlanta?
Fans remember him for his high basketball IQ and defensive versatility, which allowed him to anchor the team effectively on both ends of the floor.
Why does he remain a key part of Hawks history?
His legacy remains significant because he bridged the gap between older eras and the new generation of players that followed his departure.