Atlanta Hawks Return to Peachtree TV for Game Broadcasts
Atlanta Hawks Rekindle Partnership with Peachtree TV
In a nostalgic move, the Atlanta Hawks are soaring back to Peachtree TV, reviving a partnership that has been dormant for nearly three decades. This marks a significant shift in the broadcasting landscape for the Hawks, who have been absent from the channel since the mid-90s.
New Broadcast Schedule
Starting January 12, 2024, Peachtree TV is set to become the new home for all Friday night Hawks games for the remainder of the 2023-24 NBA season. However, fans should note an exception; the March 8th game will not be aired on Peachtree TV. Instead, the channel will broadcast the game against the New Orleans team scheduled for March 10th.
The historic collaboration between the Hawks and Peachtree TV dates back to when games were telecast by WPCH from 1972 until 1994, and concurrently on WANF from 1986 to 1993. In a nod to this shared history, the first two games under the new agreement will be simulcast live on both Peachtree TV and WANF.
Accessibility and Coverage
Peachtree TV is expanding its reach, ensuring that live Hawks games are accessible via major cable and satellite services, as well as various Gray TV stations throughout Georgia and Alabama. This move significantly enhances the accessibility of games to the Hawks' fervent fan base, providing a complimentary viewing experience alongside existing broadcast options.
Commentary Team
The games will feature the seasoned Bally Sports Southeast production team, bringing familiar voices to the broadcasts. Fans can look forward to commentary from basketball legend Dominique Wilkins, alongside Bob Rathbun and Tabitha Turner. Additionally, Baillie Burmaster, the Sports Director at WANF, will be lending her expertise to the coverage, enriching the broadcast with her insights.
Anticipated Matchups
The Hawks' revised Friday night schedule includes high-octane matchups against some of the NBA's top teams, such as the Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks, Phoenix Suns, and Philadelphia 76ers. These games are sure to provide thrilling entertainment and showcase the competitive spirit of the Hawks.
Peachtree TV isn't new to basketball broadcasting, having aired games for the College Park Skyhawks since 2019. The extension of their basketball content to include the Hawks is a strategic move that leverages their experience in sports broadcasting.
Recent Performance Review
The Hawks have faced recent challenges on the court, notably during a disappointing loss to the Sacramento Kings. A significant lead slipped away due to a subpar performance in the second half of the game. Key players Dejounte Murray and Bogdan Bogdanovic found themselves struggling, contributing a mere two and three points respectively after halftime.
An analysis of the statistics reveals a stark drop in efficiency, with the Hawks' field goal percentage plummeting to 28.9 percent and their success rate from beyond the arc falling to 21.7 percent in the latter stages of the game.
Leadership Perspectives
The return to Peachtree TV has been met with enthusiasm from the Hawks' executive ranks. Andrew Saltzman, an executive with the Hawks, underscored the significance of the partnership: "It provides fans a new, complimentary way to view the games," said Saltzman. He expressed excitement about the deal and extended gratitude to both Peachtree TV and Gray TV for their roles in facilitating this development. Saltzman believes that "This partnership will benefit the Hawks' local fan base" by enhancing accessibility to the games.
Erik Schrader echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the potential for reaching new audiences while also catering to long-time supporters. Schrader highlighted the value of bringing the Hawks back to broadcast television, which he sees as a means of providing accessibility to all fans.
On the coaching front, Quin Snyder addressed the need for improved execution and a more collective approach to the game. Meanwhile, player Clint Capela spoke candidly about the team's frustration and the urgent need for a tactical shift following the recent loss.
As the Hawks prepare for their upcoming televised games on Peachtree TV, both the organization and its supporters are filled with anticipation. The blend of nostalgia and modern broadcast technology promises to deliver an enhanced viewing experience, while the team looks to address on-court issues to return to winning ways. With the stage set for an exciting second half of the season, the Hawks and their fans have much to look forward to in 2024.