Atlanta Hawks Rekindle Partnership with Peachtree TV
In a nostalgic twist, the Atlanta Hawks are set to rejoin forces with Peachtree TV, reigniting a partnership that has been dormant for nearly three decades. This move marks a return to a familiar broadcast home for the Hawks, as they were previously aired by WPCH from 1972 until 1994 and WANF from 1986 to 1993. Starting January 12, 2024, Peachtree TV will televise every Friday night Hawks game for the remainder of the 2023-24 NBA season, with the exception of the March 8th game.
A New Schedule with a Special Exception
The broadcasting schedule includes an interesting caveat: while the majority of Friday games will be featured on Peachtree TV, the channel will swap the March 8th game for a special broadcast of the game against New Orleans on March 10. This adjustment ensures that fans won't miss out on any of the action during this critical period of the season.
Collaborative Broadcasting Efforts
In celebration of the renewed collaboration, the first two games under the new arrangement will be simultaneously aired live on both Peachtree TV and WANF, offering fans multiple platforms to support their team. Moreover, live broadcasts will not only be available through Peachtree TV but also across major cable and satellite services, as well as various Gray TV stations throughout Georgia and Alabama, ensuring comprehensive coverage for the regional fan base.
The production quality is set to be high-caliber, featuring commentary from the seasoned Bally Sports Southeast production team, which includes basketball legend Dominique Wilkins, Bob Rathbun, and Tabitha Turner. Adding to the broadcast depth, Baillie Burmaster, Sports Director from WANF, will also lend her expertise to the coverage.
Anticipated Matchups and Broadcast Expansion
Hawks enthusiasts have much to look forward to with a lineup that boasts matchups against formidable teams such as the Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks, Phoenix Suns, and Philadelphia 76ers. This diverse array of opponents promises to deliver excitement and high-stakes competition for viewers tuning in on Friday nights.
Peachtree TV is no stranger to basketball broadcasts, having aired games for the College Park Skyhawks since 2019. This expansion into NBA territory with the Hawks' games represents a significant step up in their sports programming offerings.
Recent Performance Challenges
The announcement comes at a time when the Hawks are facing challenges on the court, as evidenced by a recent loss where the team squandered a substantial lead to the Sacramento Kings. The downfall was attributed to a lackluster second-half performance, with Dejounte Murray and Bogdan Bogdanovic adding only two and three points, respectively. The statistics painted a grim picture, with the Hawks' field goal percentage plummeting to 28.9 percent and their success rate from beyond the arc dropping to 21.7 percent in the latter half of the game.
Leadership Perspectives
The Hawks' leadership has expressed optimism about the broadcasting changes. Andrew Saltzman, an executive with the organization, emphasized the benefits of the partnership with Peachtree TV and Gray TV, stating it offers "a new, complimentary way to view the games." He continued by expressing his excitement about the deal and gratitude towards the partners, highlighting how this partnership will significantly benefit the Hawks' local fan base by "bringing the Hawks back to broadcast television" and providing "accessibility to all fans."
Erik Schrader echoed these sentiments, pointing out the potential to engage new audiences while also catering to long-time supporters. This dual focus aims to bolster the Hawks' community presence and enhance fan experiences.
On the coaching front, Quin Snyder remarked on the need for "better execution and a collective approach," indicating a strategic pivot may be in the works to address the team's recent on-court struggles. Clint Capela, a key player for the Hawks, candidly addressed the team's frustration and underscored the urgent need for a tactical shift to turn the tide in upcoming games.
As the Hawks prepare to make their televised comeback on Peachtree TV, the organization, players, and fans alike are hopeful that this blend of new broadcasting opportunities and strategic adjustments will herald a successful chapter in the franchise's storied history.