NBA Cancels Hawks' Magic City Strip Club Theme Night

League cites 'concerns' from across the league as reason for cancellation.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The NBA has canceled the Atlanta Hawks' plans for a night celebrating the city's famous Magic City strip club, saying it did so due to 'concerns' from many across the league.

Why it matters

The planned theme night drew significant backlash, with critics arguing it was inappropriate for a professional sports franchise to promote a strip club. The NBA's decision to cancel the event reflects the league's efforts to maintain a family-friendly image and avoid controversies.

The details

The Hawks had planned to host a 'Magic City Night' to celebrate the iconic Atlanta strip club, which has been featured in numerous rap songs and TV shows. However, the NBA stepped in and called off the promotion, stating it had reached out to Hawks leadership to better understand their plans and rationale.

  • The NBA canceled the Hawks' plans on March 9, 2026.

The players

Atlanta Hawks

The professional basketball team based in Atlanta, Georgia.

Magic City

A famous strip club in Atlanta that has been featured in numerous rap songs and TV shows.

NBA

The National Basketball Association, the professional basketball league in the United States and Canada.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The NBA's decision to cancel the Hawks' Magic City theme night highlights the league's efforts to maintain a family-friendly image and avoid controversies, even when it means overriding a team's promotional plans.