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Hawks pick Texas F Damion James at No. 24
James
Damion James reacts after hearing his 24th pick overall pick in the NBA draft by the Atlanta Hawks and then his trade to the New Jersey Nets on Thursday, June 24, 2010, at the Nacogdoches Boys and Girls Club, in Nacogdoches, Texas. - photo by Associated Press

ATLANTA  — The Atlanta Hawks have selected Texas forward Damion James with the 24th overall pick in the NBA draft.

The 6-foot-7 James, a strong rebounder in college, will give the Hawks depth behind starting forwards Josh Smith and Marvin Williams.

James averaged 18 points and 10.3 rebounds as a senior with the Longhorns. It was his third straight season with at least 9 rebounds per game.

James entered the 2009 draft before returning for his senior season.

The Hawks are coming off a 53-win season, the most since 1996-97, and a second-round playoff loss to Orlando that cost coach Mike Woodson his job. Assistant Larry Drew was promoted to replace Woodson.