Atlanta Hawks Soar Back to Peachtree TV
In a nostalgic twist, the Atlanta Hawks are set to make their return to Peachtree TV after nearly three decades. Starting January 12, 2024, the channel will become the new home for every Friday night Hawks game for the remainder of the 2023-24 NBA season, with one exception. Due to scheduling conflicts, Peachtree TV will not broadcast the game on March 8th but will instead air the match against New Orleans on March 10th.
The Hawks' history with local broadcasts dates back to 1972 when their games were first aired by WPCH, continuing until 1994. WANF also shared broadcasting duties from 1986 to 1993. In celebration of the renewed partnership, the initial two games of this arrangement will be simulcast on both Peachtree TV and WANF, marking a significant moment for the franchise and its fans.
Accessibility is at the heart of this deal, as live Hawks games will now reach audiences across major cable and satellite services, alongside various Gray TV stations throughout Georgia and Alabama. This expanded coverage ensures that Hawks fans can catch the action from multiple platforms, uniting supporters across the region.
Production Team and Broadcast Talent
The games will feature the familiar voices of the Bally Sports Southeast production team, bringing the expertise and charisma of Dominique Wilkins, Bob Rathbun, and Tabitha Turner to the forefront. Additionally, Baillie Burmaster, the Sports Director from WANF, will lend her talents to the broadcasts, enriching the viewing experience with her insights.
Fans can look forward to an exciting lineup of Friday night matchups, including face-offs against formidable opponents like the Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks, Phoenix Suns, and Philadelphia 76ers. The inclusion of these games in the broadcast schedule promises to deliver high-stakes entertainment week after week.
Peachtree TV isn't new to basketball broadcasts, having been the broadcaster for the College Park Skyhawks since 2019. This move to include the Hawks' games reinforces the channel's commitment to basketball and its local fan base.
Recent On-Court Challenges
The Hawks have faced their share of challenges on the court. A recent game against the Sacramento Kings saw the team squander a significant lead due to a lackluster performance in the second half. Key players Dejounte Murray and Bogdan Bogdanovic experienced a dip in form, contributing a mere two and three points respectively during this period. The statistics painted a grim picture, with the Hawks managing only a 28.9 percent field goal percentage and a 21.7 percent success rate from the three-point line in the latter half of the game.
Leadership Perspectives
Team executives and coaching staff have weighed in on the significance of the broadcasting shift and the current state of the team. Andrew Saltzman, an executive with the Hawks, emphasized the value of the partnership with Peachtree TV and Gray TV, stating, "It provides fans a new, complimentary way to view the games." He expressed excitement about the deal and gratitude towards the partners, highlighting how "this partnership will benefit the Hawks' local fan base."
Erik Schrader, reflecting on the broader impact of the move, remarked, "Bringing the Hawks back to broadcast television provides accessibility to all fans," adding that it creates "an opportunity for engaging new audiences and catering to long-time supporters."
From the coaching perspective, Quin Snyder stressed the need for "better execution and a collective approach" following the disappointing loss to the Kings. Meanwhile, player Clint Capela voiced concerns over "the team's frustration and the urgent need for a tactical shift," hinting at possible strategic changes ahead to address the recent on-court setbacks.
Looking Ahead
As the Atlanta Hawks prepare for their upcoming games, the new broadcast arrangement with Peachtree TV offers a silver lining, promising to bring the excitement of NBA basketball to a wider audience. With the talent both on the court and in the commentary booth, fans are sure to enjoy a rich viewing experience. As the Hawks aim to bounce back from their recent slump, the support of their fans watching from home could provide the much-needed boost to their morale and performance.