Danny Ferry named Hawks' GM

UPDATED: The Hawks have announced that Ferry has been hired as president of basketball operations and general manager. The deal is reportedly for 6 years, which seems likely to be longer than the commitment the Sixers would have been willing to make.

I'm very excited to be here today with the opportunity to help build something special for the Hawks and the Atlanta community," Ferry said in a statement. "The Hawks are dedicated to creating consistent success for our fans and doing so with the right people and the right way. I look forward to an exciting future together."

EARLIER: Danny Ferry, a candidate to replace Sixers president Rod Thorn, has been offered the general manager job with the Atlanta Hawks, according to a report.

Yahoo Sports reported that Ferry and the Hawks are engaged in serious talks and have made progress toward an eventual agreement, according to sources said.

The Daily News reported June 11 that the Sixers were beginning the process of replacing Thorn, who has a year left on his contract and would move to a consultant role. Ferry had interviewed with the Sixers for the position, sources have said.

Ferry in the vice president of basketball operations for the San Antonio Spurs in his second tour with the team. He was the general manager of the Cleveland Cavaliers from 2005 to '10.

The contract of Hawks general manager Rick Sund runs out after the draft later this week. He is looking to either retire or take on an advisory role, although a number of teams have interest in him.