The Atlanta Hawks, who possess the first overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, aim to enhance all aspects of their team.

Aside from possibly acquiring a generational talent in the draft, the team has strengthened their behind-the-scenes staff ahead of the 2024-25 NBA season.

The Hawks have appointed athletic trainer Ben Peterson as their VP of Player Health and Performance, according to NFL insider Tom Pelissero of the NFL Network.

Peterson was highly respected within the Bay Area squad, having worked for the Niners since March 2019, according to his LinkedIn profile.

In his final season with the 49ers in 2023, he held the same position he is about to assume with the Hawks.

His responsibilities included overseeing athletic training, sports medicine, physical therapy, strength and conditioning, and nutrition.

Ben Peterson also worked in the NHL and MLB

Pelissero noted that Peterson is set to achieve the rare milestone of an athletic trainer holding a major position for teams in the NBA, NFL, and NHL, three of North America's four major professional sports leagues, alongside MLB.

Peterson was the Director of Sports Science for the NHL's Philadelphia Flyers from August 2016 to February 2019.

He has also worked in MLB in a minor capacity as an Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Minnesota Twins from January 2009 to September 2010.