The Atlanta Hawks defeated the Orlando Magic 124-112 at State Farm Arena on March 16, 2026-securing their 10th straight win. But the sold-out crowd’s embrace of Magic City-themed apparel overshadowed the game.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver canceled the Hawks’ planned Magic City promotion earlier this month, citing concerns from fans, partners, and employees. The collaboration-announced February 26-had included co-branded merch, lemon pepper wings, and a T.I. performance.
Hawks co-owner Jami Gertz wore a Magic City sweatshirt courtside. She also produced a STARZ docuseries on the Atlanta club.
Fans scrambled for the limited 300 preordered hoodies-selling out in minutes. One fan, Koreena Atkins of the FanDuel 404 crew, secured hers but was told chants and gear would not be tolerated in-arena.
Reaction split: A longtime season-ticket holder praised the NBA’s reversal, citing concerns about family-friendly branding. DJ Ashton Leroux, who’s performed at Magic City for eight years, acknowledged the cultural complexity-and the challenge of explaining it to children.