Club Shay Shay - Episode Summary: "Hawks AF - Hawks CEO Steve Koonin on Touring the Aquarium with Beyoncé, Team's Future, & ATL's Best"

Release Date: May 20, 2025

In this engaging episode of Club Shay Shay, NFL legend Shannon Sharpe sits down with Steve Koonin, the dynamic CEO of the Atlanta Hawks and chairman of the Atlanta Aquarium. The conversation delves deep into Koonin's multifaceted role, his contributions to Atlanta's community, his experiences with high-profile guests like Beyoncé, and his vision for the Hawks' future.

1. Introduction of Steve Koonin [02:07 - 02:50]

Shannon Sharpe kicks off the episode with an enthusiastic introduction of Steve Koonin, highlighting his deep Atlanta roots, educational background from the University of Georgia, and his impressive professional journey through major companies like Coca-Cola and Turner before ascending to his current roles. Sharpe exclaims:

"Today's guest is an OG from Atlanta... Ladies and gentlemen, make some noise for Steve Koonin. Come on, y’all." [02:27]

2. Steve Koonin’s Vision for the Hawks [03:10 - 04:30]

Sharpe delves into Koonin's primary responsibilities and aspirations as the CEO of the Atlanta Hawks. Koonin emphasizes the importance of enhancing the fan experience and fostering community spirit:

"I want people to have the best experience that night, and it starts at the Hawks game... it demonstrates Atlanta, which is all of us who are different come together and celebrate one thing, and that's a Hawks victory." [03:21]

3. Building a Strong Team [04:27 - 05:44]

Discussing the Hawks' current roster, Koonin highlights the potential of young talents like Risa Shay (19), Dyson Daniels (22), and Jalen (23). He reflects on team dynamics and the organization's focus on forward momentum:

"In contemporary times, you don’t look back. You make the moves and you keep going." [04:55]

4. Community Engagement and Support [05:31 - 14:11]

Koonin passionately discusses his commitment to Atlanta beyond basketball. He outlines several community initiatives spearheaded by the Hawks:

• Midnight Basketball Program: Supporting youth through programs that promote staying off the streets and conflict resolution.

• COVID-19 Response: Transforming 28 courts into pop-up grocery stores to feed communities and later pivoting to a home delivery service for seniors through the 'Healthcare Heroes' initiative.

"Sports are the thing that brings people together, brings you and I together." [13:33]

"Doing things is the essence of what we do... And that's what I'm the most proud of." [14:09]

5. Touring the Aquarium with Beyoncé [06:15 - 08:05]

A standout moment in the episode is Koonin recounting his experience touring the Atlanta Aquarium with Beyoncé and her family. He shares insights into the special visit and its significance:

"We spent three hours. Her kids had free reign of the place... She was lovely." [06:25]

"The aquarium symbolizes to me the resurgence of downtown." [06:34]

6. Downtown Atlanta’s Resurgence [06:34 - 14:11]

Koonin elaborates on the ongoing revitalization of downtown Atlanta, attributing part of it to the success of the aquarium. He mentions new developments like restaurants on Marietta Street, the Centennial Yards project, and upcoming concert venues:

"I've worked within a mile of this arena my entire career... the aquarium started to lift downtown." [06:42]

7. Personal Insights and Lighthearted Banter [10:25 - 15:20]

Throughout the interview, Sharpe and Koonin engage in playful exchanges, sharing personal anecdotes and humorous moments. They discuss local hotspots, favorite eateries like Geo's Chicken and Tico Pizza, and even joke about celebrity involvement in basketball practices:

"They threw some 7-year-olds out for screaming 'Trey, Trey, Trey' in the huddle." [10:44]

"They are my duck. They are. I eat a corner of one." [12:05]

8. Conclusion and Mutual Appreciation [15:31 - 16:22]

The episode wraps up with a heartwarming exchange between Sharpe and Koonin, reinforcing the deep bond between the Hawks' management and the Atlanta community. Sharpe highlights Koonin's pivotal role in bridging gaps and fostering community growth:

"This city appreciates you, man. We got your support and we support you." [15:20]

Notable Quotes:

• Steve Koonin [03:21]: "I want people to have the best experience that night, and it starts at the Hawks game."

• Steve Koonin [06:34]: "The aquarium symbolizes to me is the resurgence of downtown."

• Steve Koonin [13:33]: "Sports are the thing that brings people together, brings you and I together."

• Steve Koonin [14:09]: "That's what I'm the most proud of."

Key Takeaways:

• Community First: Steve Koonin exemplifies leadership that prioritizes community engagement and development, using the Atlanta Hawks as a vehicle for positive change.

• Strategic Vision: Koonin's focus on enhancing fan experiences and fostering young talent positions the Hawks for a promising future.

• Cultural Impact: Through initiatives like the Midnight Basketball Program and responsive actions during the COVID-19 pandemic, Koonin demonstrates the influential role of sports organizations in societal well-being.

• Atlanta’s Growth: The collaboration between the aquarium and urban development projects underscores Atlanta's ongoing resurgence as a vibrant metropolitan hub.

This episode offers listeners a comprehensive look into Steve Koonin's impactful leadership and his dedication to both the Atlanta Hawks and the broader community. Shannon Sharpe facilitates a conversation that is both informative and entertaining, shedding light on the intertwined nature of sports, community, and personal commitment.