Hawks Soar Back to Peachtree TV
In a nostalgic twist, the Atlanta Hawks are set to make their return to Peachtree TV after a hiatus that has spanned nearly three decades. This homecoming marks a significant moment for both the team and its fans, as Peachtree TV becomes the new destination for Friday night basketball in Atlanta.
Starting January 12, 2024, Peachtree TV will air every Friday night Hawks game for the remainder of the 2023-24 NBA season, with one exception: the game scheduled for March 8th will not be broadcast. Instead, the channel will showcase the Hawks' face-off against New Orleans on March 10th.
The history of the Hawks on local television is rich, with previous broadcasts by WPCH from 1972 to 1994 and WANF from 1986 to 1993. In a nod to this legacy, the first two games under the new arrangement will be simultaneously aired live on both Peachtree TV and WANF.
Fans across Georgia and Alabama can tune in to live Hawks games on Peachtree TV, available through major cable and satellite services, as well as various Gray TV stations. The broadcasts promise to deliver high-quality commentary thanks to the Bally Sports Southeast production team. Viewers can look forward to insights from luminaries such as Dominique Wilkins, Bob Rathbun, and Tabitha Turner. Additionally, Baillie Burmaster, the Sports Director from WANF, will be lending her expertise to the coverage.
Marquee Matchups on the Horizon
The Hawks have an enticing slate of Friday night matchups ahead, featuring high-caliber opponents like the Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks, Phoenix Suns, and Philadelphia 76ers. These games are not just regular season fixtures; they are potential previews of playoff battles and opportunities for the Hawks to test their mettle against some of the league's most formidable teams.
Peachtree TV is no stranger to basketball, having broadcasted games of the College Park Skyhawks since 2019. The addition of the Hawks' games enriches the station's portfolio and deepens its connection with basketball fans in the region.
A Game of Two Halves
However, the return to Peachtree TV comes at a time when the Hawks are looking to rebound from a challenging performance. The team recently surrendered a significant lead in a loss to the Sacramento Kings, primarily due to a lackluster second half. Key players Dejounte Murray and Bogdan Bogdanovic were unable to maintain their first-half momentum, contributing just two and three points respectively after halftime.
The statistics paint a stark picture: the Hawks managed only a 28.9 percent field goal percentage and a disappointing 21.7 percent success rate from beyond the arc in the latter stages of the game. Such figures underscore the need for the team to recalibrate and find consistency over the full 48 minutes of play.
Community and Commentary
Andrew Saltzman, an executive associated with the Hawks, expressed enthusiasm about the new broadcasting deal. "It provides fans a new, complimentary way to view the games," he stated, emphasizing the additional options now available to the fanbase. Saltzman also extended gratitude to Peachtree TV and Gray TV for their partnership, which he believes will greatly benefit the Hawks' local supporters.
Erik Schrader, a key figure in the broadcasting community, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the move as a means to "provide accessibility to all fans." He pointed out the dual opportunity presented by the partnership: engaging new audiences while catering to long-time supporters of the franchise.
Looking Ahead
Despite recent setbacks, there is a palpable sense of determination within the team to improve. Head Coach Quin Snyder emphasized the need for "better execution and a collective approach" going forward. Meanwhile, player Clint Capela candidly addressed the team's frustration and acknowledged the urgent need for a tactical shift.
As the Hawks prepare to take flight on Peachtree TV, the stage is set for a thrilling chapter in the team's storied relationship with its fans. With a mix of high-stakes games and comprehensive local coverage, the Atlanta Hawks are poised to capture the hearts of a new generation of basketball enthusiasts while rekindling the passion of those who have followed the team for years.