"Michael Curry got cut from training camp a couple of times," Augusta State coach Dip Metress said. "You just felt like if he could stick with a team, he'd play a long time."

Curry, a former Glenn Hills and Georgia Southern standout, ended up playing 11 seasons in the NBA. Now, Siler will try to persevere like his family friend.

A former NCAA Division II All-American center, Siler was one of the Hawks' final 16 players on their roster. But Atlanta cut the first-year, training camp rookie, along with center Courtney Sims and guard Mario West.

"It's obviously disappointing for him," Metress said. "I'm sure he's weighing his options."

Siler didn't immediately return a cell phone message. His two main options are the NBA Developmental League, which begins play Nov. 27, or pro basketball in Europe.

Either option is more of a positive, Metress said, than Siler sitting on the end of the bench for an NBA team and getting little playing time.

"He's still young in his development," the Jaguars coach said. "If he gets a chance to play, that'll help him. He still needs to see a lot of action to get better."

Siler wrapped up his collegiate career at Augusta State when the Jaguars lost in the Division II Final Four in March. He finished as the NCAA record holder for career field-goal percentage (75 percent).

Siler then was invited to the prestigious seniors-only Portsmouth Invitational, where he played well. He then attended some NBA workouts in advance of the draft. Though he didn't get selected, Siler found interest from some teams, including Atlanta.

After posting an impressive outing in the NBA Summer League, Siler returned for another workout with the Hawks. He signed with Atlanta for training camp.

Siler played 12 minutes in the preseason, posting three rebounds, one block and one point. He did not take a field-goal attempt.

Reach Chris Gay at (706) 823-3645 or chris.gay@augustachronicle.com.