NBA shuts down Hawks’ Magic City Night promotion scheduled for March 16

The Atlanta Hawks said the NBA canceled the planned Magic City Night promotion scheduled for March 16 at State Farm Arena.

ATLANTA (41NBC/WMGT)— The Atlanta Hawks confirmed Monday the NBA has canceled the team’s planned “Magic City Night” promotion scheduled for the March 16 game at State Farm Arena.

In a statement, the Hawks said they were disappointed by the league’s decision but said they respect it.

“While we are very disappointed in the NBA’s decision to cancel our Magic City Night promotion, we fully respect their decision,” the team said in a statement. “As a franchise, we remain committed to celebrating the best of Atlanta – with authenticity – in ways that continue to unite and bring us all together.”

Despite the cancellation of the promotion, several elements of the game night will continue as planned.

According to the Hawks, rapper T.I. will still perform at halftime.

The team said a limited-edition Peachtree-themed hoodie that was originally planned for the event will no longer be sold at the game, though all pre-ordered merchandise will still be delivered.

The Hawks also said a planned live recording of the Hawks AF Podcast featuring Hawks principal owner Jami Gertz, T.I. and Magic City founder Michael “Mr. Magic” Barney has been canceled. Fans who purchased tickets to attend the recording will be contacted directly, according to the team.

The Hawks said the usual food options at State Farm Arena will still be available during the game.

In a statement, Commissioner Adam Stern said the NBA reached out to Hawks leadership to “better understand their plans and rationale” after learning of the scheduled promotion.

“While we appreciate the team’s perspective and their desire to move forward, we have heard significant concerns from a broad array of league stakeholders, including fans, partners and employees,” the statement said. “I believe canceling this promotion is the right decision for the broader NBA community.”