Atlanta Hawks Return to Peachtree TV
The Atlanta Hawks are making a nostalgic return to Peachtree TV, reigniting a partnership that has been dormant for nearly three decades. Starting January 12, 2024, Peachtree TV is set to broadcast every Friday night Hawks game for the remainder of the 2023-24 NBA season, with the exception of the March 8th game.
In an interesting twist, the channel will instead showcase the Hawks' game against the New Orleans team on March 10, bypassing the March 8th fixture. This marks a significant moment for the franchise and its fans, as the games were previously aired by WPCH from 1972 until 1994, and WANF from 1986 to 1993, creating a sense of homecoming for the broadcasts.
A Dual Broadcast Premiere
The commencement of this new broadcasting era will be celebrated with the first two games being simulcast live on both Peachtree TV and WANF. This dual coverage ensures that the Hawks' return to broadcast television reaches a wide audience, tapping into the nostalgia of long-time fans while engaging new viewers.
Peachtree TV's coverage extends beyond just local broadcasting, as live Hawks games will be available through major cable and satellite services, as well as various Gray TV stations across Georgia and Alabama. This broad distribution strategy underscores the Hawks' commitment to making their games accessible to the widest possible audience.
Commentary Team Announced
The games will feature the seasoned Bally Sports Southeast production team, bringing familiar voices to the commentary box. The lineup includes basketball legend Dominique Wilkins, alongside Bob Rathbun and Tabitha Turner, offering in-depth analysis and play-by-play action. Adding to the expertise, Baillie Burmaster, Sports Director from WANF, will contribute to the broadcasts, providing her unique insights into the game.
Friday Night Matchups
The Hawks' schedule for these Friday night spectacles includes high-stakes matchups against formidable opponents such as the Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks, Phoenix Suns, and Philadelphia 76ers. These games promise to deliver intense competition and must-watch moments for basketball aficionados.
It's worth noting that Peachtree TV isn't new to basketball broadcasts, having been the home for the College Park Skyhawks games since 2019. This experience with basketball content will undoubtedly translate into high-quality broadcasts for the Hawks' games.
Recent On-Court Struggles
Despite the excitement surrounding the broadcast news, the Hawks have recently faced challenges on the court. In a disappointing turn of events, the team squandered a significant lead against the Sacramento Kings, primarily due to a lackluster performance in the second half of the game. Key players Dejounte Murray and Bogdan Bogdanovic were unable to maintain their momentum, contributing a mere two and three points respectively after halftime.
The statistics paint a grim picture of the Hawks' performance during the latter half, with a field goal percentage of just 28.9 percent and a three-point success rate plummeting to 21.7 percent. This slump in form has raised concerns and calls for strategic changes within the team.
Leadership Comments on the Partnership
Andrew Saltzman, an executive associated with the Hawks, expressed his enthusiasm about the renewed partnership with Peachtree TV, stating, "It provides fans a new, complimentary way to view the games." He also extended his gratitude towards Peachtree TV and Gray TV for facilitating this opportunity, highlighting the benefits it will bring to the Hawks' local fan base.
Erik Schrader echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the potential for reaching new audiences and serving loyal supporters. His remarks underline the importance of broadcast television in enhancing accessibility for all fans, regardless of their preferred viewing platforms.
Team's Outlook
On the coaching front, Quin Snyder has called for "better execution and a collective approach" to overcome the recent setbacks. Meanwhile, player Clint Capela has voiced the team's frustration and underscored the urgent need for a tactical shift if the Hawks are to bounce back and capitalize on their televised games to rally support among their fan base.
As the Hawks prepare for their upcoming televised fixtures, the blend of media nostalgia and on-court ambition sets the stage for what promises to be an exciting chapter in the team's history.