Atlanta Hawks Soar Back to Peachtree TV
The Atlanta Hawks are set to make a triumphant return to Peachtree TV, rekindling a partnership that has been dormant for nearly three decades. In a move that will delight fans across the region, Peachtree TV is slated to broadcast every Friday night game for the remainder of the 2023-24 NBA season, beginning January 12, 2024. This excludes only the March 8th game, which will be replaced by the March 10th matchup against New Orleans.
This marks a significant shift in broadcasting for the Hawks, who were previously aired by WPCH from 1972 to 1994 and by WANF from 1986 to 1993. In celebration of this new era, the first two games under the new arrangement will be simultaneously broadcast live on both Peachtree TV and WANF, offering fans multiple platforms to catch the action.
Expanding Access to Hawks Games
Peachtree TV's coverage extends beyond just traditional television; it encompasses major cable and satellite services, as well as various Gray TV stations within Georgia and Alabama. This expanded access ensures that live Hawks games reach an extensive audience, satisfying the demand for more accessible sports content.
The commentary team is set to feature the expertise of the Bally Sports Southeast production crew, including basketball legend Dominique Wilkins, play-by-play announcer Bob Rathbun, and sideline reporter Tabitha Turner. Adding to the depth of coverage, Sports Director Baillie Burmaster from WANF will also be contributing to the broadcasts, providing her unique insights into the game.
With a schedule that boasts high-profile matchups against teams such as the Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks, Phoenix Suns, and Philadelphia 76ers, the Hawks' Friday nights are poised to become a staple for basketball enthusiasts.
Continued Commitment to Local Basketball
Peachtree TV's commitment to local basketball is not new; the network has been the home of the College Park Skyhawks since 2019. By bringing the Hawks into the fold, they reinforce their dedication to showcasing homegrown talent and energizing the local fan base.
Recent Struggles on the Court
Despite the excitement surrounding the broadcasting news, the Hawks have faced recent challenges on the court. A disappointing loss to the Sacramento Kings highlighted issues with performance, particularly in the second half of the game. Key players Dejounte Murray and Bogdan Bogdanovic were unable to maintain their momentum, adding a mere two and three points respectively after halftime.
The team's overall field goal percentage plummeted to 28.9 percent, and their success rate from the three-point line was a meager 21.7 percent in the latter stages of the game. These statistics underscore the need for a strategic reassessment and improved execution moving forward.
Leadership Perspectives
Andrew Saltzman, the voice of the Hawks organization, expressed his enthusiasm about the renewed partnership with Peachtree TV, emphasizing the benefits to fans and the additional viewing options it provides. "It offers fans a new, complimentary way to view the games," Saltzman remarked, signaling his gratitude towards Peachtree TV and Gray TV for making this possible. He further noted that the deal would greatly benefit the Hawks' local fan base.
Erik Schrader, another key figure in the agreement, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the potential for engaging new audiences while catering to long-time supporters. "Bringing the Hawks back to broadcast television provides accessibility to all fans," Schrader stated, pointing out the inclusive nature of the initiative.
On the coaching front, Quin Snyder stressed the importance of "better execution and a collective approach" in the wake of the team's latest defeat. Meanwhile, player Clint Capela voiced the team's frustration and called attention to the urgent need for a tactical shift, hoping to steer the season back on course.
As the Hawks prepare to spread their wings on Peachtree TV, the blend of nostalgia and modern broadcasting promises to deliver an immersive experience to viewers. The collaboration between the storied franchise and the network is a testament to the enduring passion for basketball in Atlanta and the surrounding regions. With a lineup of exciting games ahead, the stage is set for the Hawks to captivate their fans, both old and new, as they write the next chapter in their broadcast history.