A New Era for Atlanta Hawks Broadcasts
In a nostalgic nod to the past, the Atlanta Hawks are set to make their return to Peachtree TV, rekindling a relationship that has been dormant for nearly three decades. The partnership promises to reignite local enthusiasm as Peachtree TV gears up to air every Friday night Hawks game for the remainder of the 2023-24 NBA season, starting from January 12, 2024. This excludes only the March 8th game, which will be replaced by the March 10th game against New Orleans.
The historical context of this broadcast revival is rich, with the Hawks' games previously showcased on WPCH from 1972 to 1994 and WANF from 1986 to 1993. In a tribute to this renewed collaboration, the first two games under the new agreement will be simulcast live on both Peachtree TV and WANF, offering fans multiple platforms to support their team.
Accessibility remains a key focus, as live Hawks games will be made available not only on Peachtree TV but also across major cable and satellite services, as well as various Gray TV stations throughout Georgia and Alabama. This extensive coverage ensures that die-hard fans and casual viewers alike can partake in the excitement of Hawks basketball.
Production Team and Commentary
The broadcasts will benefit from the expertise of the Bally Sports Southeast production team, featuring luminaries such as Dominique Wilkins, Bob Rathbun, and Tabitha Turner. Their insightful commentary is expected to enhance the viewing experience, providing expert analysis and engaging storytelling.
Adding to the depth of coverage, Baillie Burmaster, the Sports Director from WANF, will also contribute to the broadcasts, bringing her seasoned perspective to the forefront of the action.
Upcoming Matchups
The Hawks have an exciting slate of Friday night matchups ahead, with games scheduled against formidable opponents including the Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks, Phoenix Suns, and Philadelphia 76ers. These contests are anticipated to be high-stakes affairs, as the Hawks look to establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the league.
Peachtree TV is no stranger to basketball broadcasts, having aired games for the College Park Skyhawks since 2019. This experience with basketball programming is expected to translate into high-quality broadcasts for the Hawks' games.
Recent Performance Reflections
Despite the positive news surrounding the broadcasting deal, the Hawks are coming off a tough loss to the Sacramento Kings, where a significant lead slipped away due to a lackluster performance in the second half. Key players Dejounte Murray and Bogdan Bogdanovic were unable to maintain their momentum, contributing a mere two and three points respectively after halftime.
This downturn was reflected in the team's shooting percentages, with field goals plummeting to 28.9 percent and three-point attempts falling to a success rate of just 21.7 percent in the latter stages of the game. Such statistics highlight areas in need of immediate improvement if the Hawks are to bounce back in their upcoming games.
Industry Perspectives
Andrew Saltzman, an executive associated with the Hawks, shared his optimism about the new broadcasting arrangement, stating, "It provides fans a new, complimentary way to view the games." He continued to express his excitement about the deal and extended gratitude towards Peachtree TV and Gray TV for making it possible. Saltzman believes this partnership will significantly benefit the Hawks' local fan base.
Erik Schrader, reflecting on the broader impact of the broadcast deal, remarked, "Bringing the Hawks back to broadcast television provides accessibility to all fans." He underscored the potential for engaging new audiences and catering to long-time supporters, suggesting that the move could have a far-reaching positive effect on the franchise's popularity and reach.
On the court, Head Coach Quin Snyder emphasized the necessity of "better execution and a collective approach" following the recent defeat. Meanwhile, Clint Capela, one of the team's leading figures, spoke candidly about the team's frustration and the urgent need for a tactical shift to regain their competitive edge.
As the Atlanta Hawks embark on this new broadcasting journey, there is a palpable sense of anticipation for what the future holds. Fans across Georgia and beyond are eager to tune in to Peachtree TV and witness the next chapter in Hawks history unfold, one game at a time.