Tom Cousins was a successful basketball player who played for the University of Georgia Bulldogs in the 1940s. He was known for his exceptional shooting skills and was a key player in the team's success during his time there. After college, Cousins went on to play for the Atlanta Dairies, a semi-professional team, where he continued to showcase his talent on the court.
In the 1950s, Cousins shifted his focus to business and became a successful real estate developer. However, his love for basketball never faded, and he remained involved in the sport throughout his life. He was a major supporter of the University of Georgia's basketball program and helped fund the construction of the Stegeman Coliseum, the team's home court.
Cousins also played a significant role in bringing professional basketball to Atlanta. In the 1960s, he was part of a group that worked to bring an NBA team to the city. This effort eventually led to the creation of the Atlanta Hawks, and Cousins became one of the team's owners.
As an owner, Cousins was committed to building a successful team and creating a positive fan experience. He invested in the team's facilities and worked to improve the overall quality of the NBA in the city. Under his leadership, the Hawks made several playoff appearances and became a respected team in the league.
Cousins' impact on basketball extended beyond his time as an owner. He was a philanthropist who believed in using sports to make a positive impact on communities. He founded the East Lake Foundation, which aimed to revitalize a struggling neighborhood in Atlanta through education, housing, and community development. The foundation also created a golf course and youth development program that helped young people in the area develop life skills and achieve their goals.
Overall, Tom Cousins was a talented basketball player who went on to make a significant impact on the sport as an owner and philanthropist. His legacy continues to be felt in the NBA and in the communities he worked to improve.
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