Steve Koonin lashes out at Shams Charania for report about Atlanta Hawks coach: "I’m literally calling Shams out, it is just hack journalism”

Atlanta Hawks CEO Steve Koonin accused Shams Charania of The Athletic of "hack journalism" over a report on coach Nate McMillan's status. Koonin denied Charania's Friday report that McMillan had "strongly considered resigning."

Charania reported about McMillan's current state with the team following a verbal exchange with star point guard Trae Young earlier this month. The Athletic reporter touched on the possibility of the coach resigning. Koonin denied the report and blasted Charania.

"This is made up stuff. I’m literally calling Shams out. It is just hack journalism. Hack," Koonin said.

According to Charania, the issue stemmed from the heated verbal exchange the coach had with his star point guard, Trae Young. It took place during a gameday shootaround and most reports point out that it could be a big factor in McMillan's potential departure from the Hawks.

Shams Charania is one of the most reliable sources in the NBA for breaking news stories and updates. Accusing the reporter of "hack journalism" is a strong accusation. Still, the departure of McMillan could happen. We'll have to wait for further updates if he moves on from the Hawks.

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How will Koonin's accusation affect the credibility of Shams Charania?

The Athletic's NBA insider, Shams Charania

Out of all the major media outlets that cover the NBA, Shams Charania and The Athletic are the only ones to report on McMillan's status. After his report was published, the Hawks CEO quickly denied the claim and accused Charania of "hack journalism."

Regardless of the accusations he received from the Hawks executive, there's still credible content in his report. He has proof to back up his claims. Before making a report on the matter, McMillan and Young already had problems that were known to the public.

The internal problems in the Hawks organization are enough evidence to show how abysmal the season has been for the team. They are currently 17-18, ninth in the Eastern Conference. The team is already showing signs of struggle, and it's highly likely that the rumors of McMillan wanting to leave will be true.

McMillan, a standout guard whose No. 10 jersey has been retired by the Seattle SuperSonics and N.C. State, has also coached the SuperSonics, Indiana Pacers and Portland Trail Blazers. He played 12 seasons in the NBA, all with the SuperSonics and has coached in the NBA since retiring as a player in 1998.