Atlanta Hawks Return to Peachtree TV
In a nostalgic homecoming, the Atlanta Hawks are set to reignite their relationship with Peachtree TV after nearly three decades. Starting January 12, 2024, Peachtree TV will broadcast every Friday night Hawks game for the remainder of the 2023-24 NBA season, with one exception. In a slight schedule adjustment, the channel will air the March 10th game against New Orleans instead of the originally slated March 8th matchup.
The Hawks' history with local broadcasts dates back to their time on WPCH from 1972 to 1994 and WANF from 1986 to 1993. Marking this revival of tradition, the first two games under the new deal will be simulcast live on both Peachtree TV and WANF.
Broadening Access to Hawks Games
Fans across Georgia and Alabama will have ample opportunity to catch the Hawks in action. Live broadcasts will be available not only on Peachtree TV but also through major cable and satellite services, as well as various Gray TV stations throughout the region.
Viewers can expect top-notch commentary thanks to the Bally Sports Southeast production team. The familiar voices of Dominique Wilkins, Bob Rathbun, and Tabitha Turner will continue to accompany the live-action, offering their expert analysis. Furthermore, Baillie Burmaster, the Sports Director at WANF, will join the broadcast team, bringing her unique insights to the coverage.
The revamped Friday night lineup promises to deliver excitement with high-stakes games against formidable opponents such as the Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks, Phoenix Suns, and Philadelphia 76ers. This move is not only a win for nostalgia but also for accessibility, as Peachtree TV has been successfully broadcasting the College Park Skyhawks since 2019.
Recent On-Court Struggles
Despite the buzz surrounding their broadcasting future, the Hawks have encountered challenges on the court. A recent game saw them squander a significant lead against the Sacramento Kings, primarily due to a lackluster performance in the second half. Both Dejounte Murray and Bogdan Bogdanovic found it tough after halftime, contributing a mere two and three points, respectively.
Anemic shooting plagued the team, with field goal percentages plummeting to 28.9 percent and three-point success rates dipping to just 21.7 percent during the latter stages of the contest. These statistics underscore the need for a strategic reassessment if the Hawks are to bounce back and capitalize on their renewed media presence.
Leadership Perspectives
Andrew Saltzman, an executive within the Hawks organization, expressed enthusiasm about the new broadcasting arrangement. He highlighted the additional viewing options for fans, stating, "It provides fans a new, complimentary way to view the games." Saltzman continued by extending gratitude to both Peachtree TV and Gray TV for the partnership, which he believes will greatly benefit the Hawks' local fan base.
Erik Schrader, a key figure in the broadcasting sphere, echoed these sentiments. He emphasized the importance of making the games accessible to all fans and pointed out the potential for engaging new audiences while catering to long-time supporters.
On the coaching front, Quin Snyder, head coach of the Hawks, called for "better execution and a collective approach" following the disappointing loss. Clint Capela, a central player for the team, voiced his concerns regarding the team's frustration and stressed the urgent need for a tactical shift.
As the Hawks gear up for their upcoming televised games, they carry not only the weight of their rich history but also the hopes of their dedicated fan base. With the backing of their broadcast partners and the guidance of their leadership, both on and off the court, the Atlanta Hawks look to soar once again in the hearts and homes of basketball enthusiasts across the South.