Atlanta Hawks to Reignite Nostalgia with Peachtree TV Broadcasts
In a move that harkens back to the glory days of local sports broadcasting, the Atlanta Hawks are set to make a grand return to Peachtree TV after a hiatus that spans nearly three decades. This nostalgic revival will see Peachtree TV airing every Friday night Hawks game for the remainder of the 2023-24 NBA season, starting from January 12, 2024. Fans should note, however, that the March 8th game is an exception and will not be broadcast on the channel.
Instead, Peachtree TV has opted to air the matchup against New Orleans on March 10. This adjustment ensures that the Hawks' presence on Peachtree TV remains uninterrupted during their regular Friday night slot.
A Storied History
The history of the Hawks' broadcasts in Atlanta is rich, with previous games having been showcased on WPCH from 1972 until 1994, and WANF from 1986 to 1993. In a nod to this storied past, the first two games under the new arrangement will be simulcast live on both Peachtree TV and WANF, offering fans multiple platforms to enjoy the games.
Broad Access for Fans
Accessibility is at the forefront of this partnership. Live Hawks games will be available not just on Peachtree TV but also across major cable and satellite services, as well as on various Gray TV stations throughout Georgia and Alabama. This extensive coverage ensures that Hawks fans, regardless of their location, have the opportunity to follow their team closely.
The broadcasts will feature the seasoned Bally Sports Southeast production team, with commentary legends such as Dominique Wilkins, Bob Rathbun, and Tabitha Turner. Adding to the depth of coverage, Baillie Burmaster, Sports Director from WANF, will contribute to the broadcasts, bringing her expertise and insights to the table.
Anticipated Matchups
The Hawks' Friday night schedule is packed with thrilling matchups, including high-stakes games against formidable opponents like the Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks, Phoenix Suns, and Philadelphia 76ers. These games are not only crucial for the Hawks' standings but also serve as a weekly highlight for the local fan base and the broader NBA audience.
Peachtree TV is no stranger to basketball broadcasts, having aired games for the College Park Skyhawks since 2019. The extension of their basketball programming to include the Hawks is a testament to their commitment to providing comprehensive sports entertainment to viewers.
Recent On-Court Struggles
Despite the excitement surrounding the broadcast announcement, the Hawks have faced recent on-court challenges. A notable example was their disappointing loss to the Sacramento Kings, where a significant lead slipped away due to a lackluster performance in the second half. Key players Dejounte Murray and Bogdan Bogdanovic were unable to maintain their momentum, contributing a mere two and three points respectively after halftime.
This slump in performance was reflected in the team's shooting statistics, with a field goal percentage of just 28.9 percent and a three-point success rate plummeting to 21.7 percent in the latter half of the game. Such figures underscore the need for improvement and recalibration as the season progresses.
Leadership Commentary
Andrew Saltzman, an executive within the Hawks organization, expressed his enthusiasm about the new broadcasting deal, highlighting its significance: "It provides fans a new, complimentary way to view the games." He continued to express gratitude towards Peachtree TV and Gray TV for their roles in facilitating this partnership, which he believes will greatly benefit the Hawks' local fan base.
Erik Schrader, another key figure in the collaboration, emphasized the importance of accessibility, stating, "Bringing the Hawks back to broadcast television provides accessibility to all fans." Schrader also pointed out the potential for engaging new audiences while catering to long-time supporters, suggesting that the partnership could expand the Hawks' reach and solidify their presence in the community.
On the coaching side, Quin Snyder, the Hawks' head coach, stressed the need for "better execution and a collective approach" following the team's recent setbacks. Player Clint Capela echoed this sentiment, addressing the team's frustration and the urgent need for a tactical shift to overcome the challenges they face on the court.
As the Hawks look forward to their upcoming games and the enhanced viewing experience for fans, there is a palpable sense of anticipation for what the rest of the season holds. With strategic adjustments and the support of their passionate fan base, the Hawks aim to turn their fortunes around and