Atlanta Hawks Seal Broadcast Deal with Peachtree TV
In a nostalgic homecoming, the Atlanta Hawks are set to soar back onto Peachtree TV's screen after a hiatus that lasted nearly three decades. This marks a significant shift in the broadcasting landscape for the team, whose games have been absent from the channel since the early '90s.
New Broadcasting Schedule
Starting January 12, 2024, Peachtree TV is slated to air every Friday night Hawks game for the remainder of the 2023-24 NBA season, with the exception of the game on March 8th. In an interesting twist, the channel has opted to broadcast the March 10th game against New Orleans instead. This adjustment ensures that fans won't miss out on the action during this pivotal stretch of the season.
The historical significance of this partnership is underscored by the fact that the Hawks' games were previously telecast by WPCH from 1972 until 1994 and by WANF from 1986 to 1993. To celebrate the renewed collaboration, the first two games under the new agreement will be simulcast live on both Peachtree TV and WANF, offering viewers multiple platforms to catch the excitement.
Access for Fans
Accessibility is a key component of this deal. Live broadcasts of the Hawks' games will be available not just on Peachtree TV but also across major cable and satellite services. Additionally, fans in Georgia and Alabama can tune into various Gray TV stations to follow their favorite team. This multi-platform approach ensures that Hawks basketball reaches a broad audience, satisfying a diverse fan base across different regions.
Commentary Team
The games will come to life with the familiar voices of the Bally Sports Southeast production team. The commentary lineup features none other than basketball legend Dominique Wilkins, along with Bob Rathbun and Tabitha Turner, who bring their insightful analysis to each broadcast. Adding to the depth of coverage, Baillie Burmaster, the Sports Director from WANF, will contribute her expertise to the broadcasts, enriching the viewing experience with her knowledge and passion for the game.
Exciting Matchups Ahead
The Hawks' Friday night schedule is packed with high-stakes matchups, including face-offs against formidable opponents like the Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks, Phoenix Suns, and Philadelphia 76ers. These games promise to deliver the intensity and drama that NBA fans crave, with each contest potentially having playoff implications as the season progresses.
Peachtree TV is no stranger to basketball broadcasts, having aired games for the College Park Skyhawks since 2019. This experience with basketball programming suggests that the network is well-equipped to handle the demands of NBA coverage, ensuring that fans receive a top-tier broadcast experience.
Recent On-Court Struggles
Despite the excitement surrounding the broadcast announcement, the Hawks are looking to bounce back from a recent on-court setback. The team suffered a disappointing loss to the Sacramento Kings after squandering a significant lead due to a lackluster performance in the second half. Key players Dejounte Murray and Bogdan Bogdanovic struggled to find their rhythm, contributing only two and three points respectively after halftime.
The statistical downturn was evident, with the team's field goal percentage plummeting to 28.9 percent, accompanied by a three-point success rate of just 21.7 percent in the latter stages of the game. This slump underscores the need for strategic adjustments as the season unfolds.
Leadership Perspectives
Andrew Saltzman, an executive associated with the Hawks, expressed his enthusiasm about the new broadcasting arrangement, highlighting the additional viewing options it provides for fans. He also extended gratitude towards Peachtree TV and Gray TV for their roles in forging this partnership, which he believes will greatly benefit the Hawks' local fan base. "Bringing the Hawks back to broadcast television provides accessibility to all fans," echoed Erik Schrader, reinforcing the sentiment that the deal opens up opportunities for engaging new audiences while catering to long-time supporters.
On the coaching front, Quin Snyder emphasized the necessity for better execution and a more cohesive approach moving forward. Clint Capela, a key player for the Hawks, voiced the team's frustration and acknowledged the urgent need for a tactical shift if they are to contend for the top spots in the league.
As the Hawks prepare for their upcoming televised games, the organization and its fans alike hope that the return to Peachtree TV will not only herald a new era in broadcasting but also inspire the team to elevate their performance on the court, matching the excitement of this landmark media deal with success in the game they love.