Lamont Butler Lands Two-Way Deal with Atlanta Hawks After Breakout Year at Kentucky
The road to the NBA isn’t always paved with first-round hype—but Lamont Butler is proving that grit, defense, and clutch DNA still get you noticed.
The former Kentucky Wildcats point guard has officially signed a two-way contract with the Atlanta Hawks, marking the next chapter in an already memorable college career. The news, first reported by Mark Zeigler of the San Diego Union-Tribune, comes on the heels of Butler’s standout season under new Kentucky head coach Mark Pope, where he emerged as a fan-favorite and backcourt anchor in Lexington.
From San Diego to Bluegrass: Butler’s Unconventional Path
Before wearing Kentucky blue, Butler built his name as a defensive juggernaut with the San Diego State Aztecs, leading them to a historic Final Four run in 2023. It was during that run that Butler made one of the most iconic shots in recent college basketball memory—a buzzer-beater to send SDSU to the national championship game.
But instead of riding that moment into the NBA draft, Butler chose to transfer—bringing his elite defense, leadership, and big-game pedigree to Kentucky for his final collegiate season. The move paid off.
A Season of Clutch Performances and Defensive Mastery
In his lone season with the Wildcats, Butler averaged 11.4 points, 4.3 assists, and 1.6 steals per game, while shooting a blistering 39.1% from three-point range. But his most unforgettable moment came in a heated rivalry matchup against Louisville in December. That night, Butler delivered one of the most efficient and electric performances of the college basketball season, finishing 10-for-10 from the field, including 6-for-6 from deep, for 33 points and six assists.
Even more impressive? He did it all with surgical poise and relentless defense, reminding everyone why he was once the Mountain West Conference Defensive Player of the Year.
Despite missing nine games during the season, Butler’s reputation as a durable, battle-tested leader remained intact. His ability to lock down opponents, orchestrate offense, and hit timely shots made him one of the most underrated guards in the 2024 class.
Hawks Take a Smart Gamble
Though Butler went undrafted, the Atlanta Hawks wasted no time adding him to their roster via a two-way deal. Under the current NBA structure, two-way players spend time between the NBA G League and the main roster—giving teams a chance to develop rising talent while offering players a pathway to stick long-term.
For Atlanta, it’s a savvy move. With questions swirling around the team’s backcourt depth and ongoing roster evolution, Butler provides NBA-ready perimeter defense, a growing offensive arsenal, and a proven history of delivering in big moments. His high basketball IQ and no-nonsense style of play fit the mold of a modern two-way guard.
Summer League Spotlight Awaits
Butler’s first real opportunity to shine in front of NBA eyes will come in Las Vegas this July, as he suits up for the Hawks in NBA Summer League action. There, he’ll look to show scouts and fans alike that his college game can translate to the pro level—especially on defense, where his lateral quickness, on-ball tenacity, and anticipation skills already project well against NBA guards.
More importantly, Summer League could be the launching pad Butler needs to cement his value as more than just a role player—it’s his chance to prove he belongs on a full NBA roster.
More Than a Role Player: A Leader in the Making
What makes Butler’s story so compelling isn’t just the stats or the accolades—it’s the intangibles. He’s a natural leader. He thrives under pressure. And above all, he knows how to win.
As the Hawks build a new identity around rising stars and youthful energy, adding a player like Butler brings an edge and maturity to the bench. If he continues on this trajectory, it’s not hard to imagine him earning a full-time roster spot sooner rather than later.
A Name to Watch in ATL
Whether it’s on the floor of the G League or under the bright lights of State Farm Arena, Lamont Butler is a name NBA fans need to remember. His journey may not have started with a lottery pick or viral highlight reel, but it’s built on something even more valuable—consistency, defense, and the heart of a clutch performer.
Atlanta may have just landed one of the best undrafted steals of the offseason.
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