Hawks Soar Back to Peachtree TV
After a hiatus that stretched nearly three decades, the Atlanta Hawks are making a triumphant return to Peachtree TV. In an exciting development for fans, Peachtree TV is set to broadcast 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, with the channel opting instead to air the matchup against New Orleans on March 10th.
The storied history between the Hawks and local television dates back to when WPCH-TV (formerly known as Peachtree TV) aired their games from 1972 until 1994. WANF also had broadcasting rights from 1986 to 1993. In a nod to this shared past, the first two games under the new agreement will be simulcast on both Peachtree TV and WANF, offering a broader platform for viewers to tune in.
Fans across Georgia and Alabama can catch these live games not only on Peachtree TV but also through major cable and satellite services, as well as various Gray TV stations. With such widespread coverage, the accessibility to Hawks basketball is poised to reach unprecedented levels.
A Partnership with History and Expertise
The broadcasts will feature the seasoned Bally Sports Southeast production team, including none other than Hawks legend Dominique Wilkins, alongside Bob Rathbun and Tabitha Turner. Their commentary will no doubt add depth and insight into each game's proceedings. Additionally, Baillie Burmaster, the Sports Director from WANF, will contribute her expertise to the broadcasts, enriching the viewing experience with her knowledge and perspective.
This partnership is not just about nostalgia; it's about bringing high-quality sports production to the fans. The Atlanta Hawks' Friday night schedule boasts a series of compelling matchups, including games against formidable opponents like the Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks, Phoenix Suns, and Philadelphia 76ers. These games promise to deliver the excitement and competition that NBA fans crave.
Peachtree TV: Expanding Its Basketball Portfolio
It's worth noting that Peachtree TV isn't new to the basketball scene. Since 2019, they have been the broadcasting home of the College Park Skyhawks, the official G League affiliate of the Atlanta Hawks. This expansion into airing NBA games underscores the station's commitment to basketball at both the professional and developmental levels.
Recent Struggles on the Court
The return to Peachtree TV comes amidst a challenging time for the Hawks on the court. A recent game saw them surrender a significant lead to the Sacramento Kings, culminating in a loss driven by a lackluster second-half performance. Key players Dejounte Murray and Bogdan Bogdanovic found themselves struggling after halftime, contributing a mere two and three points respectively. The team's overall field goal percentage plummeted to 28.9 percent, while their success from beyond the arc was a dismal 21.7 percent in the latter half of the game.
Leadership and Team Insights
In response to the recent setbacks, voices within the organization have emphasized the need for change. Andrew Saltzman, an executive with the Hawks, remarked on the significance of the broadcasting partnership, stating, "It provides fans a new, complimentary way to view the games," and expressed his excitement about the deal. He also extended gratitude towards Peachtree TV and Gray TV for their roles in facilitating this opportunity for the Hawks' local fan base.
Erik Schrader echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of bringing the Hawks back to broadcast television to ensure all fans have access. He sees it as a chance to engage new audiences while also catering to long-time supporters.
On the coaching front, Quin Snyder has called for "better execution and a collective approach" to overcome the team's challenges. Meanwhile, Clint Capela, one of the Hawks' key players, has openly discussed the team's frustration and the urgent need for a tactical shift. These insights suggest a team aware of its issues and actively seeking solutions.
As the Hawks look to rebound from their recent on-court struggles, the partnership with Peachtree TV stands as a beacon of hope for fans eager to support their team. With increased accessibility and expert commentary, this could be the catalyst the Hawks need to reinvigorate their season and re-engage with the community that has supported them through thick and thin.