The Atlanta Hawks have canceled their planned promotion honoring Magic City, a well-known adult entertainment venue, after the NBA expressed concerns from various league participants. The decision came in response to feedback from fans, partners, and employees across the NBA.
Commissioner Addresses the Situation
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver issued a statement explaining the league’s involvement.
“When we became aware of the Atlanta Hawks’ scheduled promotion, we reached out to Hawks leadership to better understand their plans and rationale,”
Silver said. He added,
“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. I believe canceling this promotion is the right decision for the broader NBA community.”
Background and Reactions
The Hawks had announced the celebration the week before, intending to honor Magic City, a cultural landmark known for its signature lemon pepper wings. The event attracted criticism within the league, including from San Antonio Spurs player Luke Kornet, who voiced his apprehensions about the promotion.
Broader Implications for NBA and Teams
This cancellation reflects the NBA’s cautious approach toward promotions linked to adult entertainment venues, aiming to balance cultural acknowledgment with the values shared by its diverse community. Future team promotions will likely be evaluated with heightened attention to stakeholder perspectives to maintain the league’s inclusive environment.
The following has been released by the NBA. pic.twitter.com/jzbUW8t73Y
— NBA Communications (@NBAPR) March 9, 2026
