HeadlinesBriefing favicon HeadlinesBriefing.com

Hawks Win 124-112 as Magic City Gear Storms Arena

ESPN NBA •
×

State Farm Arena filled to capacity on Monday night as the Atlanta Hawks defeated the Orlando Magic 124-112, marking the team's tenth straight win. With 18,138 fans in attendance, the arena buzzed like a playoff venue, yet the real headline was the presence of Magic City gear across the stands.

The short‑lived partnership, announced Feb. 26, promised exclusive merch, lemon‑pepper wings, and a halftime show by T.I. but was shut down by NBA commissioner Adam Silver after concerns from fans, partners and employees. Still, many Hawks supporters arrived in club apparel, defying the ban.

A Hawks Shop associate reported that 300 Magic City hoodies were pre‑ordered, selling out in under two hours. The high demand prompted a larger shipment, but the items will now be permanently stowed. Fans like Koreena Atkins secured one of the limited pieces, while others, such as Nichole Kagwisa, missed the window.

Owner Jami Gertz sat near half‑court, watching the Hawks roll to victory while wearing a club sweatshirt. The controversy sparked mixed reactions: some fans praised the NBA’s decision, citing generational concerns, while others lamented lost merchandise and the club’s unique flavor. The incident underscores how off‑court partnerships can ripple through a fan base.