ESPN Mid-season Rookie Accolades

[theatlfan]

It's an insider article, but there was one there that I think was worth sharing:

Best Defender: Pero Antic
Surprised? You wouldn't be if you watched him play. As a veteran pro, he understands his role in Atlanta's defensive strategies and often uses his size and strength to be in the right place at the right time.

Most importantly, he does not foul as much as you'd expect from a big rookie because he tries to "tall up" with arms straight up rather than lowering them in a poor attempt to block a shot or change it. The Hawks are a much better defensive team when he is in the game, and he has helped make up for an injured Al Horford far better than anyone could have expected.

I think we've all been appreciative of the fact that Antic plays a very heady, veteran game that comes with being a 15 year pro just not in the US. This has shown through in a lot of skills that I think we take for granted a lot of time (i.e., inbounding the basketball). It's nice to see Pero get a hat tip.

[DirtybirdGA]

Good stuff...thanks for sharing.

[ATL Boy]

it was also announced that he'll be participating in the "Rising Stars" challenge.

[Jamaaliver]

it was also announced that he'll be participating in the "Rising Stars" challenge.

Wow. Congrats to Pero on making this. Really says something about the 60 kids drafted last year that a 31 year old undrafted free agent from Macedonia (not exactly a basketball hub) makes this team. Kind of an indictment of Dennis, too.

Antic's been solid in relief of Horford. Hope he's healed in time to participate.

That should make three Hawks participating in the festivities with inevitable appearances by Thrillsap and Korv3r.