NEW YORK, Aug. 19 (UPI) -- Atlanta Hawks co-owner Steven Belkin Friday reached agreement with his co-owners to sell his ownership interest in Atlanta Spirit LLC, which owned the team.
No terms were released.
Belkin had been the NBA governor of the franchise.
"The differing opinions among Hawks owners over the Joe Johnson trade made it clear that philosophical differences exist over how best to build the Hawks into a winning franchise," said Commissioner David Stern. "I appreciate that Steve has voluntarily resigned as NBA Governor in order to ensure that the team can move forward with one voice. I certainly hope that he will consider returning to the NBA as an owner of another franchise in the near future."
In a release on NBA.com, the league requested that all parties involved refrain from making further comment.
Johnson was obtained in a trade with Phoenix Friday.
Atlanta Spirit LLC also owns the Atlanta Thrashers and operates Philips Arena, the home facility for both clubs.
