NBA Cancels Hawks' Controversial Strip Club Promo Night

League cites 'significant concerns' from fans, partners, and employees

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The NBA has canceled a controversial promotional event the Atlanta Hawks were planning to hold next week in conjunction with a well-known local strip club called Magic City. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said the league 'heard significant concerns from a broad array of league stakeholders' and decided to pull the plug on the 'Magic City Night' promotion.

Why it matters

The planned Hawks promotion sparked widespread criticism for its association with an adult entertainment venue, raising concerns about the league's brand and values. The decision to cancel the event reflects the NBA's efforts to maintain a family-friendly atmosphere and distance itself from activities that could be seen as inappropriate or controversial.

The details

The Hawks' 'Magic City Night' was intended to 'celebrate Atlanta's iconic cultural institution' of the Magic City strip club. However, the promotion drew backlash from players like Spurs center Luke Kornet, who said it did not align with the league's vision of providing a safe, family-friendly environment for fans.

  • The 'Magic City Night' promotion was scheduled for next Monday.

The players

Adam Silver

The NBA Commissioner who announced the decision to cancel the Hawks' controversial promotion.

Luke Kornet

A Spurs player who criticized the Hawks' planned promotion, saying it did not align with the league's values.

Atlanta Hawks

The NBA team that had planned the 'Magic City Night' promotion in partnership with a local strip club.

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What they’re saying

“I believe canceling this promotion is the right decision for the broader NBA Community.”

— Adam Silver, NBA Commissioner (nypost.com)

“We desire to provide an environment where fans of all ages can safely come and enjoy the game of basketball and where we can celebrate the history and culture of communities in good conscience. The celebration of a strip club is not conduct aligned with that vision.”

— Luke Kornet, Spurs Player (Medium)

The takeaway

The NBA's decision to cancel the Hawks' controversial strip club promotion underscores the league's efforts to maintain a family-friendly brand and distance itself from activities that could be seen as inappropriate or at odds with its values. This incident highlights the delicate balance professional sports leagues must strike between celebrating local culture and upholding their own standards of conduct.