Atlanta Hawks Soar Back to Peachtree TV
In a nostalgic homecoming, the Atlanta Hawks are set to make their return to Peachtree TV after nearly three decades. Beginning January 12, 2024, Peachtree TV will be the new Friday night roost for the Hawks, broadcasting every game for the remainder of the 2023-24 NBA season—with the sole exception of the March 8th matchup.
Instead, Peachtree TV will showcase the Hawks' game against the New Orleans team on March 10. This marks a significant shift in the Hawks’ broadcast strategy, as they were previously aired by WPCH from 1972 until 1994 and by WANF from 1986 to 1993.
To celebrate this partnership, the first two games under the new arrangement will be simultaneously broadcast live on both Peachtree TV and WANF, offering fans multiple avenues to support their team.
Expanding Reach Across Platforms
The reach of the Hawks' broadcasts extends far beyond Peachtree TV alone. Fans can catch the live action on major cable and satellite services and across various Gray TV stations throughout Georgia and Alabama. This expanded accessibility ensures that Hawks supporters can follow their team's progress across a multitude of platforms.
Adding to the excitement, the Bally Sports Southeast production team will provide commentary for the games. The team includes notable personalities such as Dominique Wilkins, Bob Rathbun, and Tabitha Turner, whose insights and analyses are sure to enrich the viewing experience. Additionally, Baillie Burmaster, Sports Director from WANF, will lend her expertise to the broadcasts, adding depth to the coverage.
A Schedule Packed with Action
The Hawks' Friday night lineup promises a series of compelling matchups, featuring high-profile opponents like the Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks, Phoenix Suns, and Philadelphia 76ers. These games are not only pivotal for the Hawks' standings but also offer fans the thrill of top-tier basketball competition.
It's worth noting that Peachtree TV isn't new to basketball broadcasts; the station has been airing games for the College Park Skyhawks since 2019, demonstrating their commitment to bringing local basketball to viewers.
Recent On-Court Struggles
Despite the excitement surrounding the new broadcast deal, the Hawks have faced recent challenges on the court. A disappointing performance against the Sacramento Kings saw the team squander a significant lead in the second half. Key players Dejounte Murray and Bogdan Bogdanovic found themselves struggling, contributing a mere two and three points respectively after halftime.
Their shooting accuracy took a hit as well, with the team's field goal percentage plummeting to 28.9 percent and their three-point success rate dropping to 21.7 percent in the latter stages of the game. These statistics highlight areas where the Hawks must improve to regain their competitive edge.
Industry Reactions to the Broadcast Deal
Andrew Saltzman, an executive associated with the Hawks, expressed his enthusiasm about the new broadcasting arrangement. "It provides fans a new, complimentary way to view the games," he said, underscoring the additional options now available to the Hawks' audience. Saltzman continued, "We're excited about the deal," and extended his gratitude to both Peachtree TV and Gray TV for making it possible. He believes that "this partnership will benefit the Hawks' local fan base" by improving access to the team's games.
Erik Schrader shared similar sentiments, focusing on the broader impact of the deal. "Bringing the Hawks back to broadcast television provides accessibility to all fans," he stated, highlighting the inclusive nature of the agreement. Schrader also mentioned the potential for "engaging new audiences and catering to long-time supporters," which could help grow the Hawks' fan base.
On the coaching front, Quin Snyder emphasized the need for "better execution and a collective approach" moving forward. Clint Capela, reflecting on the team's recent struggles, spoke of "the team's frustration and the urgent need for a tactical shift." These comments suggest a keen awareness within the organization that strategic changes are necessary to overcome current challenges.
As the Atlanta Hawks prepare to take flight on Peachtree TV, the anticipation among fans is palpable. With a mix of seasoned veterans and fresh talent, the Hawks are determined to turn their season around, while their supporters enjoy enhanced access to every swoop and dive of the journey ahead.