Atlanta Hawks Return to Peachtree TV
The storied Atlanta Hawks are set for a nostalgic return to Peachtree TV, rekindling a partnership that has been dormant for nearly three decades. In a move that is sure to excite fans across Georgia, Peachtree TV will become the new home for every Friday night Hawks game for the remainder of the 2023-24 NBA season, starting January 12, 2024. This marks a significant shift in the broadcasting landscape for the Hawks, who have not been featured on this channel since their previous stint with WPCH from 1972-1994 and WANF from 1986-1993.
In a special arrangement, the channel will air the game against the New Orleans Pelicans on March 10, diverging from its regular schedule to avoid broadcasting the game on March 8th. To commemorate the beginning of this renewed alliance, the first two games under the new deal will be simulcast live on both Peachtree TV and WANF, offering viewers multiple platforms to catch the action.
Broadening the Hawks' Reach
Fans won’t have to look far to find the Hawks on television, as Peachtree TV's coverage extends beyond the traditional broadcast. The games will also be available through major cable and satellite services, and on various Gray TV stations throughout Georgia and Alabama, ensuring comprehensive regional access. Moreover, the broadcasts will feature the experienced Bally Sports Southeast production team, which includes basketball luminaries such as Dominique Wilkins and Bob Rathbun, with Tabitha Turner providing sideline reporting. Adding to the depth of coverage, Baillie Burmaster, the Sports Director from WANF, will lend her expertise to the broadcasts as well.
This broadcast expansion comes at an opportune time as the Hawks' Friday night lineup boasts an array of high-stakes matchups against formidable opponents like the Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks, Phoenix Suns, and Philadelphia 76ers. It’s a schedule that promises intensity and excitement for the local fan base eager to follow their team's progress through the season.
Peachtree TV isn't new to basketball broadcasting; it has been the home for the College Park Skyhawks since 2019. By taking on the Hawks' games, the station is further cementing its position as a key player in bringing basketball to viewers in the region.
Recent On-Court Challenges
The announcement of the broadcasting change follows a tough loss for the Hawks, who saw a substantial lead slip away in a disappointing second-half performance against the Sacramento Kings. Key players Dejounte Murray and Bogdan Bogdanovic faced challenges on the court, contributing only two and three points respectively after halftime. The team's shooting accuracy plummeted, finishing the game with a field goal percentage of just 28.9 percent and a three-point success rate of 21.7 percent in the latter half.
Leadership Perspectives
Andrew Saltzman, an executive within the Hawks organization, expressed enthusiasm about the new broadcasting arrangement. "It provides fans a new, complimentary way to view the games," he said, signaling the inclusive nature of the initiative. Saltzman continued, highlighting the strategic benefits: "We're excited about the deal," and extended gratitude by adding, "Thank you to Peachtree TV and Gray TV." He emphasized the positive impact this partnership would have on the Hawks' local fan base.
Erik Schrader, another key figure in the broadcast industry, echoed this sentiment, noting that the return to broadcast television "provides accessibility to all fans." Schrader also pointed out the potential for growth, stating, "There's an opportunity for engaging new audiences and catering to long-time supporters."
Reflecting on the team's recent performance, Head Coach Quin Snyder underscored the need for improvement: "Better execution and a collective approach is necessary." Meanwhile, center Clint Capela voiced his thoughts on the current state of affairs, speaking to the "team's frustration and the urgent need for a tactical shift."
The Hawks' return to Peachtree TV is more than just a change in broadcasting; it's a strategic move aimed at expanding the team's reach and engagement with fans. As the season progresses, the Hawks will be looking to turn their on-court fortunes around, while off the court, their games will now be more accessible than ever to the dedicated followers who support them through thick and thin.