The Atlanta Hawks recently solidified their roster by signing guard Keaton Wallace to a full NBA contract, transitioning him from a two-way agreement to a one-year commitment. This move, reported by NBA insider Shams Charania, recognizes Wallace's consistent efforts and promising development since going undrafted in 2021.
Wallace, a 26-year-old guard, has carved out a professional path through diligent play in the G League and brief appearances in the NBA. His journey from an undrafted prospect out of UTSA to securing a full-time spot with the Hawks is a testament to his perseverance and skill. Since joining the Hawks on a two-way deal in July 2024, Wallace has demonstrated his versatility and impact on the court.
This season, Wallace has featured in 31 games for the Hawks, contributing an average of 5.4 points, 2.6 assists, and 1.6 rebounds across 16.2 minutes per contest. He has also shown efficiency in his shooting, converting 40.1% from the field and 32.9% from beyond the arc. These statistics underscore his capability to provide depth and energy to the team's backcourt rotation.
Highlighting his significant progress, Wallace delivered a career-best performance on January 15 against the Chicago Bulls, where he notched an impressive 27 points. Furthermore, he achieved his first career triple-double on April 13 in a game against the Orlando Magic, recording 15 points, 11 rebounds, and 15 assists. Such standout games underscore his evolution as a dynamic playmaker and scorer.
Prior to his tenure with the Hawks, Wallace was part of the Los Angeles Clippers' organization, where he initially signed a two-way contract in 2023 and played for their G League affiliate, the Ontario Clippers. His consistent performance led him to the College Park Skyhawks in 2024, where he maintained averages of 16.1 points, 5.2 assists, and 4.8 rebounds over 13 games, with shooting percentages of 44.1% from the field and 38.6% from three-point range. These strong showings in the G League, coupled with his reliable perimeter shooting and defensive grit, ultimately convinced the Hawks of his potential.
Keaton Wallace's elevation to a full NBA contract with the Atlanta Hawks marks a significant milestone in his career. His journey exemplifies the rewards of dedication, as he consistently improved his game through the G League and utilized limited NBA opportunities. The Hawks now view him as an essential asset, capable of orchestrating offensive plays and defending multiple guard positions, bolstering their backcourt with his multifaceted contributions.
