Atlanta Hawks End Strip Club Partnership After Player and Fan Outcry
NBA Cancels Atlanta Hawks’ Magic City Promotion Amid Controversy
In a decisive move, the NBA announced on Monday that the Atlanta Hawks’ planned promotional night featuring the renowned Magic City adult entertainment club has been cancelled. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver emphasized that the decision considers the concerns of the broader NBA community.
"While we appreciate the team’s perspective and their desire to move forward," Silver stated, "we have heard significant concerns from a broad array of league stakeholders, including fans, partners and employees."
The Hawks had initially unveiled their "Magic City Monday" promotion in late February, which featured a halftime performance by Atlanta rapper T.I., a special hoodie collaboration, and offerings from the club’s famous menu, including the lemon-pepper wings known to be a favorite of former Hawks player Lou Williams.
Principal owner Jami Gertz has ties to Magic City, having produced the docuseries "Magic City: An American Fantasy," which aired on Starz. However, the collaboration faced backlash within the league. Notably, San Antonio Spurs center Luke Kornet publicly petitioned to cancel the event, expressing concerns about potential implications for the NBA’s image regarding the objectification and mistreatment of women.
Despite the controversy, some defended Magic City as a significant aspect of Atlanta’s culture deserving recognition. Following the NBA’s announcement, the Hawks released their own statement, expressing disappointment but accepting the decision.
Rapper T.I. will still perform during halftime. However, a planned live recording of the Hawks AF Podcast, featuring Gertz, T.I., and Magic City founder Michael Barney, has been scrapped. Fans who pre-ordered the collaborative hoodie will still receive their items, but merchandise will not be sold at the game.
In their statement, the Hawks reaffirmed their commitment to celebrating Atlanta’s culture "with authenticity" and promoting unity among fans.
