Atlanta Hawks Soar Back to Peachtree TV
In a nostalgic nod to their broadcasting history, the Atlanta Hawks are set to make a grand return to Peachtree TV after nearly three decades. Starting January 12, 2024, Peachtree TV will become the new Friday night home for Hawks basketball for the remainder of the 2023-24 NBA season, with one exception. Fans should note that the game scheduled for March 8 will not be aired; instead, the channel will broadcast the matchup against New Orleans on March 10.
The partnership rekindles memories of past broadcasts, recalling the days when WPCH aired Hawks games from 1972 to 1994 and WANF from 1986 to 1993. In a fitting tribute to this renewed collaboration, the first two games under the new agreement will be simulcast live on both Peachtree TV and WANF.
Ensuring wide accessibility, live Hawks games will be available not only on Peachtree TV but also across major cable and satellite services, as well as various Gray TV stations throughout Georgia and Alabama. This broad distribution reaffirms the franchise's commitment to its regional fan base, offering multiple avenues for supporters to follow the action.
Production and Commentary Team
The broadcast production will be in the experienced hands of the Bally Sports Southeast team. Viewers can look forward to insightful commentary by the legendary Dominique Wilkins, alongside Bob Rathbun and Tabitha Turner, who bring their expertise and enthusiasm to every game. Adding to the depth of the broadcast team, Baillie Burmaster, the Sports Director from WANF, will contribute to the coverage, bringing her unique perspective to the Friday night lights.
The Hawks' schedule is peppered with high-stakes confrontations, featuring clashes with formidable opponents such as the Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks, Phoenix Suns, and Philadelphia 76ers. These matchups promise to deliver the intensity and excitement that fans have come to expect from the NBA's elite competition.
Expanding Coverage
Peachtree TV isn't new to the basketball scene, having broadcasted games for the College Park Skyhawks since 2019. This extension into NBA territory with the Hawks broadcasts further cements the station's reputation as a go-to source for premier basketball content.
Recent On-Court Struggles
Despite the excitement surrounding the broadcasting deal, the Hawks have faced recent challenges on the court. A notable setback came at the hands of the Sacramento Kings, where the Hawks relinquished a significant lead due to a lackluster second-half performance. Key players Dejounte Murray and Bogdan Bogdanovic were unable to maintain their momentum, contributing a mere two and three points respectively after halftime. The team's shooting accuracy took a hit, with their field goal percentage plummeting to 28.9 percent and their success rate from beyond the arc dropping to 21.7 percent in the latter half of the contest.
Leadership Perspectives
Andrew Saltzman, an executive associated with the Hawks, expressed his enthusiasm about the broadcasting development. "It provides fans a new, complimentary way to view the games," he remarked, signaling the organization's drive to enhance the fan experience. He extended his gratitude towards Peachtree TV and Gray TV for enabling this partnership, which he believes will greatly benefit the Hawks' local fan base.
Erik Schrader echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the potential to engage new audiences while also catering to long-time supporters. Schrader highlighted the importance of accessibility, noting that bringing the Hawks back to broadcast television opens up the game to all fans, regardless of their viewing platforms.
On the coaching front, Quin Snyder underscored the need for better execution and a collective approach moving forward. Meanwhile, player Clint Capela voiced concerns over the team's frustration, acknowledging the urgent need for a tactical shift to overcome recent on-court challenges.
As the Hawks prepare to take flight on Peachtree TV, the anticipation among fans is palpable. With a mix of nostalgia, fresh opportunities for engagement, and a resolve to improve performance, the stage is set for an exciting chapter in Atlanta Hawks basketball.