Atlanta Hawks Soar Back to Peachtree TV
The Atlanta Hawks are making a nostalgic return to Peachtree TV, rekindling a relationship that has been dormant for nearly three decades. In a move set to delight fans, every Friday night Hawks game for the remainder of the 2023-24 NBA season, beginning January 12, 2024, will be broadcast on Peachtree TV—with the sole exception of the March 8th matchup.
In an interesting twist, Peachtree TV is slated to air the game against the New Orleans team on March 10, stepping in for the March 8th game. This marks a significant shift in the broadcasting landscape for the Hawks, whose games were once a staple on WPCH from 1972-1994 and WANF from 1986-1993.
The launch of this new broadcasting partnership will be celebrated with the first two games being simulcast live on both Peachtree TV and WANF, offering fans multiple avenues to tune in to the action.
Broadening Access for Hawks Fans
Peachtree TV's coverage extends beyond just traditional broadcasting. Live Hawks games will be accessible across major cable and satellite services, as well as on various Gray TV stations throughout Georgia and Alabama, ensuring that fans have ample opportunity to follow their team.
The broadcasts promise to deliver high-quality sports entertainment, featuring the seasoned Bally Sports Southeast production team. Notable personalities such as Dominique Wilkins, Bob Rathbun, and Tabitha Turner will provide insightful commentary, while Baillie Burmaster, Sports Director from WANF, will also lend her expertise to the coverage.
With a schedule that includes high-stakes matchups against formidable opponents like the Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks, Phoenix Suns, and Philadelphia 76ers, the Hawks' Friday nights are poised to become a highlight for sports enthusiasts.
Peachtree TV isn't new to basketball broadcasting, having aired games for the College Park Skyhawks since 2019. This expansion into NBA territory with the Hawks is a natural progression for the channel.
Recent On-Court Struggles
Despite the excitement surrounding the broadcasting news, the Hawks are looking to bounce back from a recent on-court setback. In a disappointing turn of events, the team relinquished a significant lead to the Sacramento Kings, largely due to a lackluster performance in the second half of the game.
Key players Dejounte Murray and Bogdan Bogdanovic faced difficulties after halftime, contributing a mere two and three points respectively. The team's shooting accuracy plummeted, with a field goal percentage of only 28.9 percent and a three-point success rate falling to 21.7 percent during the latter stages of the contest.
Industry Reactions
Andrew Saltzman, an executive associated with the team, expressed his enthusiasm about the new viewing opportunities for fans, stating, "It provides fans a new, complimentary way to view the games." Saltzman continued to express gratitude towards Peachtree TV and Gray TV for the partnership, which he believes will significantly benefit the Hawks' local fan base.
Erik Schrader echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of accessibility for all fans and the potential for engaging new audiences while catering to long-time supporters. The strategic move to bring the Hawks back to broadcast television is seen as a positive step in expanding the team's reach.
On the coaching front, Quin Snyder stressed the need for "better execution and a collective approach" moving forward. Player Clint Capela also highlighted the team's frustration and pointed out the urgent need for a tactical shift if they are to improve their standing and capitalize on the increased exposure the new broadcasting deal will bring.
As the Atlanta Hawks spread their wings back onto Peachtree TV screens, there is a palpable sense of anticipation for what the rest of the season holds. With enhanced access for fans and a commitment to improving on-court performance, the Hawks are poised to make the most of this homecoming.