Atlanta Hawks Rekindle Partnership with Peachtree TV
In a nostalgic twist, the Atlanta Hawks are set to make their return to Peachtree TV after nearly three decades. The partnership renewal marks a significant moment for both the franchise and its fans, as Peachtree TV becomes the new home for Friday night Hawks games for the remainder of the 2023-24 NBA season, commencing on January 12, 2024. However, fans should note the exception; the game scheduled for March 8 will not be broadcasted by Peachtree TV, which will instead air the matchup against the New Orleans team on March 10.
A Nod to the Past
The history between the Hawks and local television stretches back to the early '70s and '80s when WPCH, from 1972 to 1994, and WANF, from 1986 to 1993, served as the broadcasting platforms for the team's games. In a tribute to this longstanding relationship, the first two games under the new agreement will be simulcast live on both Peachtree TV and WANF, offering a bridge between the past and present media coverage of the Hawks.
Expanding Accessibility
This broadcasting initiative extends beyond Peachtree TV, with live coverage available across major cable and satellite services, as well as various Gray TV stations in Georgia and Alabama. This expanded distribution ensures that Hawks fans have multiple avenues to follow their team, emphasizing the franchise's commitment to accessibility and community engagement.
Expert Commentary Team
The broadcasts will feature the seasoned Bally Sports Southeast production crew, including basketball luminaries such as Dominique Wilkins and Bob Rathbun, alongside Tabitha Turner. Their expert analysis and commentary are set to enrich the viewing experience. Additionally, Baillie Burmaster, the Sports Director at WANF, will bring her expertise to the broadcasts, adding depth and insight to the coverage.
High Stakes Matchups
The Hawks' Friday night lineup promises high-octane action with games against formidable opponents like the Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks, Phoenix Suns, and Philadelphia 76ers. These matchups are not just regular season games but are pivotal confrontations that could shape the playoff landscape, making each broadcast an event that fans won't want to miss.
Peachtree TV's Commitment to Basketball
Peachtree TV is no stranger to basketball, having been the broadcaster for the College Park Skyhawks since 2019. This extension into NBA territory with the Hawks broadcasts reaffirms the channel's dedication to delivering top-tier basketball content to viewers.
Recent On-Court Struggles
The announcement comes at a time when the Hawks are looking to bounce back from a tough loss against the Sacramento Kings, where a significant lead was squandered 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. The team's shooting accuracy took a nosedive, with field goal percentages dropping to 28.9 percent and three-point success rates plummeting to 21.7 percent in the latter stages of the game.
Leadership Perspectives
Andrew Saltzman, an executive with the Hawks, expressed his enthusiasm about the new broadcasting arrangement. "It provides fans a new, complimentary way to view the games," Saltzman remarked, acknowledging the added value this deal brings to the fan experience. He extended 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 by increasing the accessibility of live games.
Erik Schrader shared similar sentiments, emphasizing the potential for reaching new audiences while continuing to cater to devoted Hawks supporters. Schrader highlighted the importance of bringing the Hawks back to broadcast television, a move that underscores the organization's commitment to inclusivity among its fanbase.
Meanwhile, Hawks coach Quin Snyder stressed the need for "better execution and a collective approach" following the team's recent defeat. Player Clint Capela echoed the urgency for a tactical shift, pointing out the team's frustration and the pressing need for strategic changes.
As the Hawks prepare for their upcoming televised games, they do so with the support of a rich broadcasting heritage and a renewed focus on connecting with their fans. With the excitement surrounding the return to Peachtree TV and the determination to improve on-court performance, the Atlanta Hawks are poised to write a new chapter in their storied history.