Today is a bittersweet day for me (and not because it's International Talk Like A Pirate Day). Royal Ivey, a backup point guard (and sometimes starter) for Atlanta the last three years, is now officially an ex-Hawk after signing a one-year contract with the Milwaukee Bucks on Tuesday.

First things first, I am thrilled for Royal. I knew his time was most likely up in Atlanta - with four point guards on the roster (five if you want to include Salim Stoudamire, but not sure if he counts) with guaranteed contracts, it was going to be tough for him to find a spot. And, given his relative lack of playing time, I feared this would be the end of the line for him in the NBA (not that there isn't a good life to be made playing overseas), so I am happy to see him landing on his feet on another roster.

Still, I am sad to see him go. As a University of Texas grad and a fierce supporter of all ex-Longhorns (except Chris Simms), I have watched with great pleasure as Royal grew from an overlooked recruit coming out of high school to a contributing member on an NBA roster. Though he never got extensive playing time in any of his three seasons here, he was a practice court warrior and a coach's delight, always giving max effort no matter the situation. Plus, I could always talk Texas sports with him - who am I going to do that with now, Acie Law? I still haven't forgiven him for this.

Anyways, I just wanted to take this opportunity to say, good luck Royal. Here is hoping he finds a good fit in Milwaukee, and prolongs his career not only another season but several more after as well.