Energy, Excitement, and Community Highlight Hawks Fan Fest at State Farm Arena

The Atlanta Hawks turned up the energy last night at State Farm Arena, giving fans an exciting and up-close look at the 2025–26 team during the annual Hawks Fan Fest presented by CareSource. The night served as both a celebration of basketball and a showcase of the team’s connection to the Atlanta community.

Before the main event tipped off, the College Park Skyhawks, the NBA G League affiliate of the Hawks, hosted their own “Skyhawks Basketball Clinic presented by Wilson,” tipping off the return of basketball season. The clinic was part of the NBA G League’s league-wide initiative with Wilson and brought together Hawks and Skyhawks fans for a fun, hands-on experience.

“Starting the season with an event like this is always a blast,” said College Park Skyhawks Head Coach Steve Klei. “To be able to reach both Skyhawks and Hawks fans today was a great opportunity, and we can’t wait to see everyone at Gateway Center Arena this season.”

More than 65 young participants, including children of Hawks and Skyhawks season ticket members, took part in the clinic, led by the Atlanta Hawks Basketball Academy, Coach Klei, and Skyhawks Assistant Coach Kari Korver. The session included calisthenics, layup lines, form shooting, and defensive drills—setting an inspiring tone for the night.

As fans filled the arena for Fan Fest, the team hit the court for interactive drills, shooting contests, and fun competitions that offered a preview of what’s to come this season. The event also featured a special live performance from hip-hop artist Roscoe Dash, who brought the crowd to its feet with a high-energy set that capped off the night in true Atlanta fashion.

The Hawks will now shift their focus back to the court as preseason action continues on Saturday, October 11, when they travel to Memphis to face the Grizzlies at FedExForum.

Following that matchup, the team returns home for a special evening at State Farm Arena. On Monday, October 13, the Hawks will host their eighth annual Pride Night during their first preseason home game against the Miami Heat with a 6 p.m. tip-off.

The night will celebrate Atlanta’s LGBTQIA+ community with dynamic in-game programming, performances, and appearances that highlight unity, inclusion, and pride. The evening will begin with a pregame concourse parade featuring members of the Atlanta Pride Committee, followed by live performances from Jay Shalé, Asiahn, and the Atlanta Gay Men’s Chorus. Rapper Saucy Santana will also serve as an in-game co-host, adding to what promises to be one of the most vibrant nights of the preseason.

“Pride Night at State Farm Arena is more than a celebration. It is a powerful affirmation of unity, visibility, and belonging,” said Camye Mackey, Executive Vice President and Chief People, Diversity, and Inclusion Officer for the Hawks and State Farm Arena. “As we celebrate our eighth year of honoring the LGBTQIA+ community and proudly conclude Atlanta’s annual Pride weekend, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering a culture that reflects Atlanta’s bold spirit, embraces its richness of diversity, and champions authentic inclusion.”

On Sunday, October 12, the Hawks will also take part in the Atlanta Pride Parade, continuing their tradition of community involvement and inclusion. The organization’s executives, team members, friends, and family will march with a Hawks- and Skyhawks-branded float featuring Harry the Hawk, ATL Dancers, and the Flight Crew, as well as Pride-themed giveaways.

As the Hawks continue their preseason stretch, the excitement around the team—both on and off the court—is building. From hosting youth clinics to celebrating diversity and unity, the organization continues to embody what it means to represent the city of Atlanta.

For more information on the Hawks’ Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives, visit Hawks.com/diversity. To secure tickets for Pride Night and other upcoming games, visit Hawks.com/tickets.