Pero Antic loves Atlanta Hawks

Atlanta Hawks’ big man Pero Antic was certainly a pleasant surprise for the Hawks.

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Antic quickly became a fan favorite in Atlanta and was one of the biggest reasons the Hawks nearly knocked off the top-seeded Indiana Pacers in the first round of the postseason. Antic’s ability to step outside and knock down three-pointers allowed the Hawks to stretch the floor and basically took Pacers’ Roy Hibbert out of the entire series.

Unfortunately for the Hawks, they were eliminated in seven games.

The Hawks also recently received other good news regarding Antic – he has no intention of going anywhere.

“Yes! I’m staying in Atlanta because I have one more year in my contract,” Antic told Nikos Varlas of Euro Hoops. “I feel good in the team. City is great , people are great and I enjoy my time there.”

Antic, of course, isn’t free to leave anyway. He has an ungauranteed contract worth $1,250,000 for next season, which is a fantastic deal for the Hawks considering his production.

Antic also believes he’s made his mark in Atlanta, which is another reason he is so happy.

“ You know me, I don’t care about what other people are talking about… I knew that I will be a role player. I was a role player in Olympiacos the last two years, but I always give 100% on the floor.. When my chance comes, I use it to the maximum. When I came to Atlanta, I was getting ready mentally to prove that I can play on the highest level. Only that.. And I succeed on that”.

Antic averaged 7.0 points, 4.2 rebounds and 1.2 assists in just 18.5 minutes per game last season.