Washington (AP) -- John Wall is back in the game.

The Washington Wizards' guard made his season debut Saturday night when he entered with 4:56 remaining in the first quarter against the Atlanta Hawks. The former No. 1 overall pick had been sidelined since being diagnosed with a stress injury to his left kneecap in September.

Applause rippled through the crowd when Wall stood up, removed his warm-up jacket and took his place in front of the scorer's table. Then came a standing ovation at the next whistle as he walked on the court. He did not acknowledge the crowd as he tied his shorts and took his place near the free-throw line. Coach Randy Wittman plans to carefully monitor Wall's minutes until the team's franchise player is back in full playing shape.