Atlanta Hawks Soar Back to Peachtree TV
The nostalgic echoes of sports broadcasting history are coming alive as the Atlanta Hawks make a triumphant return to Peachtree TV, rekindling a relationship that has been dormant for nearly three decades. In a move that is sure to delight fans across the region, Peachtree TV is set to televise every Friday night Hawks game for the remainder of the 2023-24 NBA season, commencing on January 12, 2024. This excludes the March 8th game, which will be replaced by the March 10th match against New Orleans.
The storied partnership between the Hawks and local television dates back to 1972 with WPCH, continuing through 1994, and WANF from 1986 to 1993. In a nod to this legacy, the first two games of this renewed collaboration will be simulcast live on both Peachtree TV and WANF, offering a bridge between the past and present.
Expanding Access to Hawks Games
Peachtree TV's coverage extends beyond the traditional broadcast, reaching viewers on major cable and satellite services, as well as various Gray TV stations throughout Georgia and Alabama. This broad distribution ensures that live Hawks action is accessible to a wide audience, fulfilling the needs of die-hard fans and casual viewers alike.
The production quality of these broadcasts is set to match the high standards that viewers have come to expect, featuring the seasoned Bally Sports Southeast production team. Commentary legends such as Dominique Wilkins and Bob Rathbun, along with Tabitha Turner, will continue to provide their expert analysis. Additionally, WANF's Sports Director Baillie Burmaster will contribute to the broadcasts, bringing her unique insights into the mix.
A Season of High Stakes Matchups
The Hawks' schedule is brimming with high-profile contests, pitting them against formidable opponents like the Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks, Phoenix Suns, and Philadelphia 76ers. These matchups are more than just games; they're battles that could define the trajectory of the Hawks' season, making each Friday night an event that cannot be missed.
Since 2019, Peachtree TV has also been the home of the College Park Skyhawks, demonstrating the channel's commitment to basketball at multiple levels and further cementing its status as a hub for local sports enthusiasts.
Overcoming On-Court Challenges
Despite the excitement surrounding the broadcast deal, the Hawks face their share of challenges on the court. A recent game saw the team lose a significant lead—and ultimately the match—to the Sacramento Kings, following a lackluster second-half performance. Key players Dejounte Murray and Bogdan Bogdanovic faltered after halftime, contributing a mere two and three points respectively. The team's shooting accuracy plummeted, with field goal percentages dipping to 28.9 percent and a three-point success rate of only 21.7 percent in the latter half of the game.
Leadership Perspectives
The organization's top brass have expressed their enthusiasm for the new broadcasting arrangement. "It provides fans a new, complimentary way to view the games," remarked Andrew Saltzman, whose optimism was palpable as he continued, "We're excited about the deal." He also took the opportunity to extend gratitude, saying, "Thank you to Peachtree TV and Gray TV." Saltzman emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating, "This partnership will benefit the Hawks' local fan base," and acknowledged the inclusive nature of the deal: "Bringing the Hawks back to broadcast television provides accessibility to all fans."
Erik Schrader echoed this sentiment, highlighting the strategic importance of the agreement: "There's an opportunity for engaging new audiences and catering to long-time supporters." Meanwhile, on the coaching front, Quin Snyder stressed the need for improvement: "Better execution and a collective approach is necessary." Player Clint Capela candidly addressed the team's current predicament, pointing out "the team's frustration and the urgent need for a tactical shift."
Looking Ahead
As the Atlanta Hawks look to rebound from their on-court setbacks, the renewed partnership with Peachtree TV offers a beacon of hope and excitement for fans. With broader access to games, insightful commentary, and a season filled with potential, the Hawks are poised to spread their wings once again, both on the airwaves and on the basketball court. As the franchise navigates the highs and lows of a competitive NBA season, the support of their local broadcasters and the dedication of their fan base will undoubtedly prove to be invaluable assets in their quest for victory.