Atlanta Hawks’ 2018-19 Season in Review: Justin Anderson

ATLANTA, GA - APRIL 3: Justin Anderson #1 of the Atlanta Hawks seen following the game against the Philadelphia 76ers on April 3, 2019 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Scott Cunningham/NBAE via Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GA - APRIL 3: Justin Anderson #1 of the Atlanta Hawks seen following the game against the Philadelphia 76ers on April 3, 2019 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2019 NBAE (Photo by Scott Cunningham/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Atlanta Hawks
Justin Anderson #1 of the Atlanta Hawks (Photo by Scott Cunningham/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Best Moments

JA always seemed to make the most of his minutes, even when they were in limited supply. He has a real athletic prowess that allows him to fly down the court with the best of them, surprising unsuspecting players with truly striking athleticism.

This, combined with his sneaky-good handles, make him a threat to end up on a highlight reel at anytime.

Not only did he occasionally yam on opponents throughout the year,  one of his most memorable moments came in late March, when he acquitted himself as a true hustle guy, making a leaping block that ended up being one of the Atlanta Hawks best defensive plays on the year:

https://twitter.com/NBA/status/1111789343914557441

One of Anderson’s best talents is one that takes place off the court, and the reason he became quite admired by Atlanta fans. That of course, is the fact that he’s an elite bench guy. Anderson was always animated on the sidelines, whether reacting to a big play for the Hawks, or offering some friendly heckling to their opponent.

It was a small yet important addition to the team that showed real chemistry despite their losing record.

In terms of individual game performances, he had a few stand out nights. This was especially true when he got into the starting lineup to end the season. in his first three starts he averaged 12.3 points and 7.3 rebounds while shooting 42% from the field and 50% from three.

That was punctuated with a season-high 24 points in the Hawks’ dramatic overtime win over the Bucks.