Hawks announcer in 'stable' condition after terrifying on-air medical emergency
Atlanta Hawks play-by-play announcer Bob Rathbun is in "stable" condition after being hospitalized Monday night following a scary on-air medical emergency where he briefly lost consciousness.
The 68-year-old has been the Hawks play-by-play man on Bally Sports South since 1996 and serves as the lead voice for the WNBA's Atlanta Dream as well. The incident occurred while Rathbun and color commentator Dominique Wilkins were doing their pregame analysis ahead of Atlanta's home contest against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Lauren Jbara subbed in last minute for Rathbun to cover play-by-play duties. The Hawks lost to the Thunder, 121-114.
Hawks All-Star point guard Trae Young was among many who posted on social media to express their concerns for Rathbun.
Young finished the defeat with a 23-point, 10-assist double-double. The Oklahoma product returned to the team after skipping Friday's contest following a reported dispute with head coach Nate McMillan.
Atlanta's next two games are on the road, with a tilt against the New York Knicks on Wednesday night and a battle with the Brooklyn Nets on Friday night. If Rathbun is able to return to the team for their first game back at home, that would come on Sunday against the Chicago Bulls.
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