Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green has entered a heated debate sparked by Atlanta Hawks’ decision to hold a special night honoring Magic City, a well-known local strip club, during a recent home game. The controversy arose when San Antonio Spurs center Luke Kornet openly criticized the event, sparking widespread discussion across the NBA. Green weighed in to defend the employees of Magic City, addressing Kornet’s remarks on his podcast.
Green challenged Kornet’s negative portrayal of women working in adult entertainment, calling the environment at Magic City a “form of art” that some choose to enjoy while others do not. He referenced rapper Cardi B, whose career originated in a similar setting, emphasizing her success and confidence to counter claims that those involved in the industry suffer from self-esteem issues.
“I don’t know if you’ve ever been, but if you see it in action, it’s actually a form of art – that some choose to indulge in and some choose not to indulge in. [Cardi B is] selling out stadiums and her background would be that. I don’t think Cardi B has esteem issues. So, I think that’s actually a negative vantage point on these women that are in this line of work; that because they choose this line of work that they have esteem issues.” ? Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors forward
Other Players Join the Debate Over Magic City Celebration
The discussion around the Hawks’ Magic City-themed event has attracted voices from across the NBA, including Green’s teammates and players from other teams. Al Horford, currently a member of the Warriors alongside Green and formerly of the Boston Celtics with Kornet, supported Kornet publicly by sharing his blog on social media, implying agreement with his perspective.
The divide appears strongly influenced by personal beliefs, with many players known for their religious convictions expressing disapproval of a team honoring a strip club. Green, known for his passionate and sometimes intense stance both on and off the court, criticized these players for what he sees as an overreaction to the night’s theme.
Kornet’s outspoken opposition elevated the event into a controversial topic league-wide, triggering calls from some corners for Atlanta to cancel the partnership. However, the Hawks have maintained that the event aims to acknowledge local businesses integral to their community, seeking to provide something engaging during an otherwise uninspiring season.
Atlanta Hawks Stand Firm on Their Magic City Night Tribute
Despite the backlash and controversy surrounding Magic City Night, the Atlanta Hawks appear committed to continuing the celebration. Their intent is to honor the businesses that play a vital role in their city, embracing a unique approach uncommon among other NBA teams’ brand partnerships.
The club has even embraced the cultural connection that Magic City has with NBA players. It has long been a popular stop for players visiting Atlanta, with many famously enjoying the food and atmosphere during road trips. The Hawks designed the event to highlight these communal and non-sexual aspects, aiming to showcase Magic City’s place in the city beyond its adult entertainment reputation.
Notably, the event touched on a part of NBA lore surrounding Magic City, including Lou Williams’ well-publicized visits during the NBA bubble, which sparked its own controversy. With Green’s vocal defense and the Hawks’ public backing of the event, it remains unlikely the partnership will end anytime soon.
As the NBA continues to navigate social and cultural dynamics off the court, this incident underscores ongoing tensions over differing values among players, teams, and communities. The outcome of this debate could influence how NBA franchises approach collaborations with local businesses that hold complex reputations in their cities.
Draymond Green defends the Atlanta Hawks’ Magic City Night and says exotic dancing is a form of art
“I don't know if you've ever been, but if you see it in action, it's actually a form of art – that some choose to indulge in and some choose not to indulge in…[Cardi B is]… pic.twitter.com/BsNcXOabpR
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) March 4, 2026
