Atlanta Hawks Rekindle Partnership with Peachtree TV
In a nostalgic nod to their broadcasting past, the Atlanta Hawks are making a triumphant return to Peachtree TV after nearly three decades. Starting January 12, 2024, Peachtree TV is set to air every Friday night Hawks game for the remainder of the 2023-24 NBA season, with the exception of the March 8th matchup.
The station has opted to broadcast the game against the New Orleans team on March 10, bypassing the earlier game that week. This renewed partnership reawakens memories of previous broadcasts by WPCH from 1972-1994 and WANF from 1986-1993, channels that once brought the thrill of Hawks basketball to fans across Georgia.
To celebrate the revival of this relationship, the first two games under the new arrangement will be simulcast live on both Peachtree TV and WANF, offering viewers multiple platforms to catch the action.
Expanding Access to Hawks Games
Peachtree TV's coverage extends beyond its own channel. The live Hawks games will be accessible through major cable and satellite services and will also be available on various Gray TV stations throughout Georgia and Alabama. This expansion ensures that more fans than ever can enjoy the excitement of Hawks basketball, whether they're in front of their television or tuning in through other services.
The broadcast production will be in the capable hands of the Bally Sports Southeast team, featuring commentary from legends like Dominique Wilkins, alongside Bob Rathbun and Tabitha Turner. Adding to the expertise, Baillie Burmaster, Sports Director from WANF, will contribute to the broadcast, providing her unique insights into the game.
The Hawks' Friday night lineup is nothing short of spectacular, with high-stakes matchups against formidable opponents such as the Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks, Phoenix Suns, and Philadelphia 76ers. These games promise to deliver the intensity and drama that NBA fans crave.
Peachtree TV isn't new to basketball broadcasts; it has been the home for the College Park Skyhawks since 2019. This experience with basketball programming ensures that the Hawks' games are in experienced hands.
Recent On-Court Struggles
Despite the excitement surrounding the broadcast deal, the Hawks have faced recent challenges on the court. A notable example was their loss to the Sacramento Kings, where a significant lead slipped away due to a lackluster second-half performance. Key players Dejounte Murray and Bogdan Bogdanovic were unable to maintain their momentum, contributing just two and three points respectively after halftime.
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 in the latter half of the game. These statistics underscore the need for a strategic reassessment to get the team back on track.
Executive and Player Reactions
Amidst the backdrop of on-court struggles, executives and players alike have expressed optimism about the broadcast partnership. "It provides fans a new, complimentary way to view the games," remarked Andrew Saltzman, highlighting the added value for supporters. He continued, expressing his excitement about the deal and gratitude towards Peachtree TV and Gray TV for making it possible. Saltzman believes this partnership will significantly benefit the Hawks' local fan base.
Erik Schrader echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of accessibility for all fans. According to Schrader, the move to broadcast television opens doors for engaging new audiences while honoring long-time supporters.
On the flip side, addressing the team's recent performance, Head Coach Quin Snyder stressed the need for "better execution and a collective approach." Clint Capela, one of the team's prominent players, voiced his concern over the team's frustration and the urgent need for a tactical shift to overcome the current slump.
As the Atlanta Hawks navigate their way through the season, the partnership with Peachtree TV stands as a beacon of hope for increased fan engagement and support. With a rich history of broadcasting and a commitment to reaching audiences far and wide, the stage is set for the Hawks to soar into the hearts of viewers across the region. Meanwhile, the team's resolve will be tested as they aim to translate executive optimism and fan enthusiasm into victories on the court.