He can thank his time on the Hawks' practice court this summer for the assist. Teague was one of the first players to venture down to the court for the voluntary workouts prior to the start of training camp.

It's allowed him to see guys like Jarrett Jack, Anthony Johnson and even Hawks point guard Mike Bibby in action before he takes part in his first training camp.

"It's almost like a boot camp for training camp," Teague said of the pickup games filled with pros, NBA and otherwise, on a daily basis. "For me, it's just good to get a chance to play with guys that have been in the league for a while. I know the level of intensity will rise with the start of training camp and everything. But just to be out here and see what the veterans do is good for me."

It's a tradition that veteran players insist began long before any of them started in the league and one they believe will be here long after they're gone.

"Labor Day is the last weekend to eat well and drink well and indulge in whatever your vices may be," said former Hawks and now Orlando Magic point guard Anthony Johnson, who like many of the pros attending these sessions calls Atlanta home in some form or fashion during the offseason. "Labor Day is the cut off, when you know (you) have to kill the sweets and the fried foods and get yourself focused for what will hopefully be a long (NBA) season."