Hawks' Williams Will Miss Rest of NBA Season

Atlanta Hawks guard Lou Williams will miss the rest of the NBA season after tearing a ligament in his right knee, the team said Saturday.

Williams was hurt in Atlanta's loss to the Brooklyn Nets on Friday. The Hawks said after the game he had sprained his knee, but further tests revealed a torn anterior cruciate ligament.

Williams was driving to the basket and pulled up without making contact with another player.

The seven-year pro cried out as he continued off the court without putting weight on his right leg.

After receiving treatment in the entryway to the arena floor Williams was taken to the locker room in a wheelchair.

"We are extremely disappointed for Lou and our thoughts and support will be with him during his recovery," Hawks general manager Danny Ferry said.

"He has been a complete professional in every sense of the word and we know that approach, along with his work ethic, will serve him well in his rehabilitation."

Over 39 games this season, Williams averaged 14.1 points and 3.6 assists per game.

His loss is a blow for the 22-17 Hawks, whose defeat by the Nets was their seventh in their past nine games.