Atlanta Hawks Return to Peachtree TV
In a nostalgic homecoming, the Atlanta Hawks are set to make their return to Peachtree TV after a hiatus of nearly three decades. This move will see the channel broadcasting every Friday night game for the remainder of the 2023-24 NBA season, starting from January 12, 2024. The only exception to this schedule is the game on March 8th, which will be replaced by the game against New Orleans on March 10th.
The history between the Hawks and local broadcasting stretches back to when WPCH aired their games from 1972 until 1994, with WANF also sharing in the coverage from 1986 to 1993. In a nod to this shared history, 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 just on Peachtree TV, but also on major cable and satellite services, as well as various Gray TV stations. This expanded access ensures that a wide audience will have the opportunity to tune in to the games.
Bally Sports Southeast Production Team Takes Charge
Viewers can expect a familiar and expert commentary team as the Bally Sports Southeast production crew takes the helm. The team features notable personalities such as Dominique Wilkins, Bob Rathbun, and Tabitha Turner. Their insights and play-by-play will surely enhance the viewing experience for fans. Additionally, Baillie Burmaster, the Sports Director from WANF, will lend her expertise to the broadcasts, further enriching the coverage.
The announcement of the partnership has been met with enthusiasm from both the network and the team. Andrew Saltzman, an executive associated with the Hawks, expressed his excitement about the deal, remarking on the benefits it offers to fans by providing "a new, complimentary way to view the games." He also extended gratitude to Peachtree TV and Gray TV for making this partnership possible, emphasizing that it will serve the Hawks' local fan base well.
Erik Schrader echoed these sentiments, underscoring the importance of accessibility for all fans. By bringing the Hawks back to broadcast television, the franchise aims to engage new audiences while catering to long-time supporters.
On-Court Challenges
Despite the positive developments off the court, the Hawks face challenges on it. A recent game saw them squander a significant lead against the Sacramento Kings, culminating in a loss attributed to a poor second-half performance. Key players Dejounte Murray and Bogdan Bogdanovic struggled, contributing a mere two and three points respectively during the latter half.
The statistics paint a stark picture: the Hawks managed a field goal percentage of only 28.9 percent and a three-point success rate of 21.7 percent in the second half of the game. These numbers reflect a need for improvement in execution if the team is to capitalize on its potential.
Coach Quin Snyder addressed the issue directly, calling for "better execution and a collective approach." Meanwhile, Clint Capela, one of the team's prominent figures, spoke candidly about the team's frustration and the urgent need for a tactical shift to overcome these setbacks.
The Hawks' Friday night lineup promises to deliver excitement with matchups against formidable opponents such as the Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks, Phoenix Suns, and Philadelphia 76ers. As the team navigates the rest of the season, fans will undoubtedly be watching closely to see how they adjust and respond to recent on-court adversities.
Finally, it's worth noting that Peachtree TV has been a platform for basketball in the region, broadcasting the College Park Skyhawks since 2019. This expansion to include the Atlanta Hawks is a testament to the channel's commitment to basketball and its fans in the area.
As the Hawks soar back onto broadcast television, the anticipation among fans is palpable. With seasoned commentators at the mic and a roster full of talent, the stage is set for what promises to be an electrifying remainder of the season on Peachtree TV.