Bob Rathbun: Hawks struggle playing against size; Cavs would be a challenge

In this episode of Afternoon Drive on The Fan, hosts Nick and JP welcome Bob Rathbun, the play-by-play announcer for the Atlanta Hawks, to discuss the team's dramatic post-All-Star break turnaround and their looming first-round playoff matchup with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Rathbun emphasizes the Hawks' transformation through defensive intensity, improved ball movement, and the emergence of Jalen Johnson as a franchise cornerstone, crediting head coach Quinn Snyder and the team’s strategic rebuild after trading away key players Trey Young and Kristaps Porziņģis. He highlights how changes in NBA officiating and the league’s shift toward physicality have diminished the effectiveness of small guards like Young, while also acknowledging the Hawks’ size limitations—particularly in the frontcourt—making matchups against bigger teams like the Cavs especially challenging. The conversation also touches on the potential of the upcoming WNBA expansion team in Atlanta, with Rathbun offering insights on building fan engagement and brand identity early. The episode closes with lighthearted banter about Rathbun’s $25 cameo appearances, celebrating his accessibility and value to fans.