Hawks take a look at Conley

By SEKOU SMITH
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Published on: 06/25/07

Mike Conley Jr. has fond memories of his most recent trip to Atlanta, even if it did end with his Ohio State Buckeyes coming up short against Florida in the NCAA title game.

If things work out the way Conley hopes, he'll get the chance to many more memories here. He set out on that journey Monday afternoon, working out for Hawks' brass at Philips Arena in the last workout for him and the Hawks before Thursday night's draft.

"I had a great time in this city the last time I was here. There's a lot of memories," a smiling Conley said after his workout. "Hopefully, I'll have a chance to create a lot more."

The Hawks, picking at No. 3 and No. 11, can't pass up an opportunity to snag a point guard — be it in the draft or via trade.

If they opt for the draft, the speedy Conley would appear to be the ideal choice. He dazzled everyone Monday with his speed, athleticism and bounce in drills run by Hawks assistant coach Larry Drew.

And any concerns about his size (6-foot-1, 175 pounds) were alleviated quickly, according to Hawks coach Mike Woodson.

"I think his speed eliminates all that," Woodson said. "The fact that he's quick and he can change direction with the ball, he's not bad defensively from the game tapes we watched. Again, he's got to do it at this level, the major level. He did it in high school and college. But he has to do it on this level."

The Hawks worked out all three of the draft's top rated point guards — Conley, Acie Law and Javaris Crittenton. And despite his struggles in shooting drills, Woodson said that Conley stood out as the most complete prospect in terms of a "true" point guard.

"He's a leader," Woodson said. "He's a quality guy from a great background and he's one at every level. I don't question his leadership. He's been in a position before. But to do it at this level, and do it night in and night out, that's where the test will occur.

"But he's ready, we just have to make a decision as to whether he's ready to come and do these things for our ball club. Because it's a major learning curve."