Atlanta Hawks Rekindle Relationship with Peachtree TV
In a nostalgic twist, the Atlanta Hawks are set to make a grand return to Peachtree TV, ending a nearly three-decade hiatus. The announcement has sparked excitement among fans who will now be able to catch their beloved team in action every Friday night for the remainder of the 2023-24 NBA season, starting January 12, 2024. In an interesting programming note, Peachtree TV will air the game against the New Orleans team on March 10 as an exception, replacing the originally scheduled broadcast for March 8th.
The historical context of this partnership is rich; the Hawks games were a staple on WPCH from 1972-1994 and WANF from 1986-1993. This revival of tradition will kick off with the first two games being simulcast live on both Peachtree TV and WANF, offering fans multiple venues to support their team.
Expanding Access to Hawks Games
Peachtree TV's coverage extends beyond the traditional broadcast, ensuring that live Hawks games are accessible via major cable and satellite services, as well as various Gray TV stations across Georgia and Alabama. This multi-platform approach caters to a wide audience, allowing for greater fan engagement and convenience.
The broadcasts will feature the familiar voices of the Bally Sports Southeast production team, including basketball legend Dominique Wilkins, Bob Rathbun, and Tabitha Turner. Adding to the depth of coverage, Baillie Burmaster, the Sports Director from WANF, will also lend her expertise to the broadcasts.
Fans can look forward to an exciting lineup of matchups, with the Hawks set to face formidable opponents such as the Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks, Phoenix Suns, and Philadelphia 76ers. These games are not just about competition but also about community building, as the shared experience of watching the Hawks brings fans together.
Notably, Peachtree TV has been the home of the College Park Skyhawks since 2019, demonstrating the channel's commitment to showcasing local basketball talent and fostering a sports-centric environment for viewers.
Recent On-Court Struggles
Despite the positive news off the court, the Hawks have faced challenges during gameplay. A recent loss to the Sacramento Kings underscored some issues needing immediate attention. The team squandered a significant lead due to a lackluster performance in the second half, which saw key players Dejounte Murray and Bogdan Bogdanovic contribute only two and three points respectively.
The statistical downturn was evident, with the Hawks' field goal percentage plummeting to 28.9 percent and their three-point success rate dropping to a mere 21.7 percent after halftime. Such figures highlight the need for strategic adjustments and a more cohesive effort on the court.
Reactions to the Broadcast Partnership
Andrew Saltzman, an executive associated with the Hawks, expressed his enthusiasm for the new broadcast arrangement, emphasizing its role in providing fans with a complimentary viewing option. He extended gratitude towards Peachtree TV and Gray TV for enabling this partnership, which he believes will significantly benefit the Hawks' local fan base by bringing the team back to broadcast television and enhancing accessibility for all fans.
Erik Schrader echoed similar sentiments, recognizing the opportunity to engage new audiences while continuing to cater to long-time supporters. The decision to broadcast on Peachtree TV is seen as a strategic move to expand the Hawks' reach and strengthen ties with the community.
Looking Forward
On the coaching front, Quin Snyder underscored the importance of better execution and adopting a collective approach to overcome the team's recent on-court setbacks. Clint Capela candidly addressed the team's frustration and highlighted the urgent need for a tactical shift if they are to bounce back and live up to the expectations set by their passionate fan base.
As the Hawks embark on this renewed partnership with Peachtree TV, there is a palpable sense of anticipation. With the promise of improved access to games and the potential for enhanced performance, the stage is set for an electrifying remainder of the season. Fans, commentators, and players alike are poised for what could be a pivotal chapter in the storied franchise's history.