NBA Cancels Atlanta Hawks' Plans to Celebrate Magic City Strip Club

League responds to concerns from stakeholders about the planned promotion

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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The NBA has canceled the Atlanta Hawks' plans to celebrate the city's iconic Magic City strip club, saying it was responding to concerns from many across the league. The event was supposed to feature food, music, and exclusive merchandise, but the league decided to scrap the promotion after hearing significant concerns from fans, partners, and employees.

Why it matters

The Hawks have close ties to Magic City, with team owner Jami Gertz producing a docuseries about the club's history and cultural impact. However, the league felt the promotion was inappropriate and could be seen as endorsing or glamorizing the adult entertainment industry.

The details

The Hawks had announced plans last month to hold a 'Magic City Night' during a game against the Orlando Magic, calling it a tribute to an 'iconic cultural institution.' The event was to include the club's signature lemon pepper wings, a halftime performance by rapper T.I., and exclusive merchandise. But the league stepped in and canceled the plans, with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver saying they had heard 'significant concerns' from a 'broad array of league stakeholders.'

  • The Hawks announced the 'Magic City Night' plans last month.
  • The event was supposed to take place on Monday, March 17, 2026.

The players

Adam Silver

NBA Commissioner who decided to cancel the Hawks' plans for the 'Magic City Night' promotion.

Jami Gertz

Atlanta Hawks primary owner and filmmaker who produced a docuseries about Magic City strip club.

Michael Barney

Founder of the Magic City strip club in Atlanta.

Luke Kornet

San Antonio Spurs player who spoke out against the Hawks' plans to promote the strip club.

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What they’re saying

“While we are very disappointed in the NBA's decision to cancel our Magic City Night promotion, we fully respect its decision. As a franchise, we remain committed to celebrating the best of Atlanta — with authenticity — in ways that continue to unite and bring us all together.”

— Atlanta Hawks (taylorvilledailynews.com)

“When we became aware of the Atlanta Hawks' scheduled promotion, we reached out to Hawks leadership to better understand their plans and rationale. 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.”

— Adam Silver, NBA Commissioner (taylorvilledailynews.com)

What’s next

The Hawks said some elements of the planned 'Magic City Night' will still go forward, including a halftime performance by rapper T.I. and the sale of lemon pepper wings. However, plans for exclusive merchandise and a live podcast recording have been scrapped.

The takeaway

The NBA's decision to cancel the Hawks' 'Magic City Night' promotion highlights the league's efforts to distance itself from associations with the adult entertainment industry, even when a local team sees cultural significance in the event. This move reflects the league's desire to maintain a family-friendly image and avoid potential controversies that could alienate fans, partners, and employees.