Atlanta Hawks Return to Peachtree TV
In a nostalgic move that harkens back to their broadcasting history, the Atlanta Hawks are making a triumphant return to Peachtree TV after nearly three decades. The partnership marks a new chapter for Hawks fans who will once again be able to tune into local broadcasts of their beloved basketball team.
New Broadcast Schedule Details
Starting January 12, 2024, Peachtree TV is set to air every Friday night game featuring the Hawks for the remainder of the 2023-24 NBA season, with one exception. Due to scheduling conflicts, the channel will not broadcast the game on March 8th but will instead showcase the matchup against the New Orleans team on March 10th.
The reintroduction of the Hawks to Peachtree TV reignites a relationship reminiscent of past partnerships with WPCH, which aired games from 1972 to 1994, and WANF, the broadcaster from 1986 to 1993. In celebration of this renewed alliance, the first two games under the new arrangement will be simulcast live on both Peachtree TV and WANF.
Fans across Georgia and Alabama can look forward to catching the live action not only on Peachtree TV but also on major cable and satellite services, as well as various Gray TV stations throughout the region.
Production Team and Commentary
The broadcasts promise to deliver high-quality production value, featuring the seasoned Bally Sports Southeast production team. Viewers can expect insightful commentary from basketball legend Dominique Wilkins, alongside Bob Rathbun and Tabitha Turner, who bring their expertise and energy to the screen. Adding to the depth of coverage, Baillie Burmaster, Sports Director at WANF, will contribute to the broadcasts, offering her unique perspective on the games.
Anticipated Matchups
The Hawks' Friday night schedule is packed with exciting matchups against formidable opponents such as the Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks, Phoenix Suns, and Philadelphia 76ers. These games are eagerly awaited by fans and are sure to provide thrilling basketball action week after week.
Peachtree TV's commitment to basketball extends beyond the Hawks, having been the broadcast home of the College Park Skyhawks since 2019. This expansion of coverage to include the Hawks' games demonstrates the network's dedication to bringing premier basketball content to its viewers.
Recent Performance Analysis
While the excitement builds for the upcoming broadcasts, the Hawks are looking to bounce back from a disappointing loss to the Sacramento Kings. A significant lead was squandered due to a lackluster performance in the second half of the game. Key players Dejounte Murray and Bogdan Bogdanovic experienced a drop in form, contributing a mere two and three points respectively after halftime.
The statistics paint a stark picture, with the team's field goal percentage plummeting to 28.9 percent and their three-point success rate dwindling to 21.7 percent in the latter stages of the contest. This slump in efficiency underscores the need for strategic adjustments moving forward.
Executive and Player Reactions
Despite the setback, there's a sense of optimism surrounding the team's future broadcasts and community engagement. Andrew Saltzman, an executive with the Hawks, expressed enthusiasm about the new broadcasting deal, stating, "It provides fans a new, complimentary way to view the games." He continued, acknowledging the partnership with gratitude, "Thank you to Peachtree TV and Gray TV." Saltzman believes that "this partnership will benefit the Hawks' local fan base" by enhancing accessibility and reaching out to a wider audience.
Erik Schrader echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the potential for growth, "Bringing the Hawks back to broadcast television provides accessibility to all fans," he remarked. Schrader also highlighted the opportunity to engage with both new and long-time supporters of the team.
From a gameplay perspective, head coach Quin Snyder stressed the importance of improved execution and a collective approach. Meanwhile, player Clint Capela candidly addressed the team's frustration and underscored the urgent need for a tactical shift to overcome recent challenges on the court.
As the Hawks prepare to take flight on Peachtree TV, the stage is set for a season of accessible, engaging, and high-stakes basketball. With a rich history in the rearview mirror and a promising horizon ahead, the Atlanta Hawks and their fans are poised for a new era of televised sports entertainment.