-
Atlanta’s vibrant culture took center stage on national television Friday night, as a lighthearted discussion on NBA on Prime turned to the city’s legendary strip club, Magic City.
The viral moment, featuring sports journalist Taylor Rooks and retired NBA star Blake Griffin, has Atlantans buzzing about the intersection of sports, entertainment, and local flavor.
The exchange occurred during a segment on the streaming service’s NBA coverage, where hosts Rooks, Griffin, Dirk Nowitzki, and Steve Nash reacted to the Atlanta Hawks’ upcoming “Magic City Monday” event.
Scheduled for March 16 during the Hawks’ game against the Orlando Magic at State Farm Arena, the promotion celebrates one of Atlanta’s most famous institutions with a performance by rapper T.I., servings of Magic City’s renowned lemon-pepper wings, and limited-edition merchandise.
Rooks, who grew up in Gwinnett County, Georgia, shared a personal anecdote about the club. “I am from Georgia, that was my first strip club experience. Good times,” she said with a laugh. “You see some things in there that make you say wow.”
Griffin, known for his quick wit both on and off the court, couldn’t resist chiming in. “Let’s do a demo,” he quipped, prompting laughter from the panel and sending social media into a frenzy. Nash, ever the pragmatist, followed up with, “How much are the sweatshirts?”
The clip, posted on X by @BrickCenter_, quickly amassed over 270,000 views, 5,400 likes, and hundreds of reposts.
Fans flooded the comments with reactions, from praising Griffin’s boldness to joking about potential HR calls. One user wrote, “Blake saw the alley-oop and HAD to finish it 😭,” while another noted, “That boy for sure from Oklahoma 😂😂😂.”
Magic City, located in Atlanta’s Old Fourth Ward, has long been a staple of the city’s nightlife and hip-hop scene.
Founded in 1985, it’s famous not just for its entertainment but also for its food—particularly those sticky, flavorful wings that have drawn celebrities, athletes, and locals alike.
The Hawks’ decision to honor it reflects Atlanta’s unique blend of sports and culture, much like previous theme nights celebrating the city’s music and history.
For Rooks, the moment was a nod to her Georgia roots. The 33-year-old journalist, who has interviewed stars like LeBron James and Kevin Durant, often highlights her Southern upbringing.
Griffin, a six-time All-Star who retired in 2024 after stints with the Clippers, Pistons, Nets, and Celtics, has transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting, bringing his humor to Prime Video’s NBA team.
While some viewers raised eyebrows at the risqué banter on a family-friendly sports broadcast, the overall tone was playful, aligning with the unfiltered style that has made NBA on Prime a hit.
As one fan commented on social media, “Blake Griffin just gave Amazon its first inside the NBA moment and Taylor Rooks is fighting for her life.”
The Hawks’ “Magic City Monday” is set to bring that energy to the arena, with tickets already selling briskly. Fans can expect T.I.’s hits, wing tastings, and exclusive gear—perhaps even those sweatshirts Nash inquired about.
In a city where basketball and nightlife collide, this viral clip is a reminder of Atlanta’s outsized influence on pop culture.
Whether you’re cheering for the Hawks or just craving some wings, Magic City continues to make waves far beyond Fulton County.
For more on Atlanta sports and entertainment, stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com.
-
The Atlanta Hawks are bringing a unique Atlanta flavor to State Farm Arena this March with a special themed night celebrating one of the city’s most legendary cultural spots: Magic City.
On Monday, March 16, 2026, the Hawks will host the Orlando Magic in what they’re calling “Magic City Monday” — a one-night collaboration honoring the iconic Atlanta strip club and entertainment institution that’s been a staple in local nightlife, hip-hop culture, and music history for decades.
Hawks To Host ‘Magic City’ Night in Atlanta
The announcement, released today by the Hawks organization, highlights the game as a chance to spotlight Magic City’s place in Atlanta’s identity.
While full details on in-arena activations are still rolling out, expect special tributes, possible themed elements, appearances, or nods to the club’s legacy — all tied into the matchup against the Orlando Magic (fittingly named for the occasion).
Game info at a glance:
- Date: Monday, March 16, 2026
- Time: 7:00 PM tip-off (doors open at 6:00 PM)
- Location: State Farm Arena, downtown Atlanta
- Opponent: Orlando Magic
- Additional note: The Hawks will rock their Peachtree City Edition uniforms and court design for this City Edition contest.
This isn’t just basketball — it’s Atlanta recognizing its own cultural institutions in a fun, high-energy way. Whether you’re a lifelong Hawks fan or someone who knows Magic City as a rite of passage in the city’s entertainment scene, this promises to be a memorable night.
Tickets are available now through official channels like Ticketmaster, the Hawks website, and State Farm Arena. General public availability may be limited for this themed matchup, so fans should act fast.
Stay tuned to local Hawks coverage for more specifics on giveaways, performances, and any special guests as we get closer to March 16. Let’s go Hawks — and happy Magic City Monday!
-
Atlanta, known as “Running City USA,” is in the middle of yet another exciting season of marathons, half marathons, 5Ks, 10Ks, and trail runs.
With over 30 events organized by the Atlanta Track Club alone, plus a host of independent races, 2026 promises opportunities for runners of all levels to hit the pavement, trails, and iconic routes like the Beltline and Peachtree Road.
Check Out These Atlanta Races for 2026
Whether you’re training for a full marathon or joining a fun community 5K, here’s a comprehensive guide to the year’s top races in and around the city.
Dates and details are based on current announcements, but always check official sites for updates, registration, and weather-related changes.
January: Kicking Off the Year with Reverse Peachtree Energy
The year starts strong with a unique twist on Atlanta’s most famous race.
- Atlanta Journal-Constitution Polar Opposite Peachtree Road Race (January 3): This 10K reverses the traditional Peachtree course, starting in Piedmont Park and ending at Lenox Square. It’s the second running of this event, limited to a few thousand participants for an intimate vibe. 0 25 Expect chilly temps and high energy to set the tone for 2026.
February: Marathon Weekend and Charitable Runs
February brings the big one: the Publix Atlanta Marathon Weekend, a staple for serious runners.
- Publix Atlanta Marathon Weekend (February 28 – March 1): Includes the full marathon (26.2 miles), half marathon (13.1 miles), 5K, and kids’ events. The marathon and half start on Sunday, March 1, and double as the USATF Half Marathon Championships. Routes showcase downtown, historic neighborhoods, and Olympic sites. This event is an Abbott World Marathon Major qualifier and celebrates its 20th running.
- Atlanta Mission 5K Race to End Homelessness (February 24): A 5K at Pemberton Place Greenspace supporting local homelessness initiatives.
- Westside Beltline 10K/3K (February 7, tentative based on series pattern): Part of the expanded Beltline series, focusing on the west side with options for competitive runners and walkers.
March: Spring Blooms with Trail and Road Options
As temperatures warm, March sees a surge in shorter races and trail events.
- Chattahoochee Road Race 5K/10K (March 7): A scenic run along the river in Sandy Springs, attracting 500-1,000 participants.
- Bree’s Miles of Memories 5K and Fun Run (March 7): Held at Etowah River Park in Canton, honoring a local cause.
- St. Patrick’s Parade 5K (March 14): The 11th annual event in Midtown, perfect for festive runners.
- Marietta Shamrock Shuffle 5K (March 21): 10th annual walk/run starting at Marietta Square.
- Pi Mile 5K Road Race (March 28): A fun, math-themed 5K at Georgia Tech.
- HomeStretch Run the River (March 29): A Sunday race supporting housing initiatives.
April: Beltline Series and Earth Day Vibes
April highlights the Atlanta Beltline’s growing race series.
- Northside Beltline 5K/3K (April 18): Kicks off the warmer months on the north side, open to walkers and families.
- Run Like Hell 5K (April 4): 19th annual at historic Oakland Cemetery.
- Brookhaven Bolt 5K (April 16): A community favorite in Brookhaven.
- Georgia Brain Tumor Walk & Race 5K (April 25): At Zoo Atlanta, combining running with awareness.
May: Trail Focus and Memorial Day Runs
Trail enthusiasts will love May’s offerings.
- Sunrise Marathon 5K/10K/13.1 (May 2): Scenic routes with stunning views for half marathoners and shorter distances.
- All Comers Track & Field Meets (May 5, 12, 19, 26; June 2, 9): Free for members, open to all ages, including the Wingfoot Mile. 7 25
- Georgia Peach Jam 5K Memorial Day Race (May 23): All-asphalt 5K at Little Mulberry Park.
June-August: Summer Sizzlers and Independence Day Classics
Beat the heat with early starts.
- Possum Trot 10K (June 20): 48th annual at Chattahoochee Nature Center in Roswell. 23
- Northside Hospital Peachtree Road Race (July 4): The 57th running of this iconic 10K, starting at Lenox Square and ending in Piedmont Park. Registration opens April 1.
- Southside Beltline 8K/3K (August 1): New addition to the series, exploring the south side.
September-October: Fall Marathons and Festivals
Fall brings cooler weather and longer distances.
- Bound for Boston Marathon & Half Marathon (September 6): Qualifier event in Johns Creek with waves starting from 5:30 a.m.
- The Whiskey Run (September 7): A spirited 5K/10K/half with post-race festivities at El Tesoro.
- I’m Bound for Boston Marathon & Half – Atlanta (September 26): Another qualifier in Decatur.
- The Race Half Marathon & 5K (October 3): In East Point, with virtual options and community impact focus.
- Silver Comet Marathon (October, TBD): Trail marathon in the Atlanta suburbs.
November-December: Holiday Wrap-Ups
End the year with festive runs.
- Invesco QQQ Thanksgiving Day Half Marathon (November, TBD; typically Thanksgiving Day): ATC’s annual holiday classic with 5K and kids’ dash.
- Eastside Beltline 12K/3K (December 5): Longest in the series, winding through the east side.
- Dashing Through the Square 5K (December 19): 11th annual in Marietta.
In addition to these, look for trail series like Dirty Spokes events throughout the year (e.g., March at Harbins Park, April at Iron Hill) and obstacle races like the Spartan Trifecta Weekend (March 14-15) for those seeking variety.
Atlanta’s running community thrives on inclusivity, with many events offering walker-friendly options, youth programs, and charitable ties. Lace up and join the fun—2026 is set to be a record-breaker! For more details, visit organizers like the Atlanta Track Club or local running stores.
More From AtlantaFi.com:
-
WWE Women’s Champion Jade Cargill is set to make a highly anticipated appearance in her Atlanta, as WWE Monday Night Raw returns to Atlanta’s State Farm Arena on Monday, February 23, 2026.
The powerhouse wrestler, who calls the Atlanta area home, will be on hand for a pivotal segment during the live broadcast, which streams worldwide on Netflix starting at 7:30 p.m. ET (doors open at 6:00 p.m.).
Cargill, the current WWE Women’s Champion, confirmed her plans during a recent appearance on SmackDown, where she declared her intention to be present when Women’s Royal Rumble winner Liv Morgan announces her choice of opponent for WrestleMania 42.
Morgan, who emerged victorious in the 2026 Women’s Royal Rumble, faces a major decision: challenge Cargill for the WWE Women’s Championship or pursue the Women’s World Championship held by Stephanie Vaquer.
The announcement is expected to be a marquee moment on Raw, building massive momentum toward WrestleMania—the biggest event on the WWE calendar.
Cargill has been dominating the women’s division since capturing the title, showcasing her unmatched strength and athleticism.
In a recent interview with CBS News Atlanta ahead of the event, the champion emphasized the importance of representation in her journey, inspiring fans across the city and beyond.
“I’m excited to bring this energy back home to Atlanta,” Cargill shared. “The city has always supported me, and stepping into State Farm Arena as champion feels special. Representation matters—seeing someone who looks like you succeeding at the highest level can change everything for the next generation.”
While no in-ring match for Cargill has been officially announced for the February 23 episode, her presence alone promises high drama, especially with tensions rising between the top women’s stars.
Other highlights on the card include a special tribute to Georgia’s own AJ Styles following his recent retirement, the return of Brock Lesnar ahead of Elimination Chamber, and additional matches building toward major storylines.
WWE’s return to Atlanta marks the first live Raw event in the city in 2026, and tickets remain available through Ticketmaster, AXS, and the State Farm Arena box office. Fans are encouraged to arrive early for the best seats and to catch all the pre-show excitement.
Don’t miss what could be a defining night on the Road to WrestleMania. Tune in Monday night—or better yet, grab your tickets and witness it live at State Farm Arena.
Atlanta’s own Jade Cargill is ready to remind the WWE Universe exactly who’s in charge.
For more updates, follow local wrestling coverage right here and check WWE.com for the latest card additions.
More From AtlantaFi.com:
-
The Atlanta Braves are kicking off the 2026 season with a meaningful community initiative, launching the first Braves Home Plate Project presented by Chick-fil-A of the year. This ongoing program, led by the Atlanta Braves Foundation, continues its mission to combat food insecurity and promote food sovereignty throughout Braves Country.
In partnership with Chick-fil-A, Columbia Drive United Methodist Church, Urban Recipe, and Concrete Jungle, the Braves hosted a community food distribution event at Columbia Drive United Methodist Church, located at 2067 Columbia Drive in Decatur, DeKalb County.
Braves Launch Food Initiative in Metro Atlanta
The event provided essential resources to 300 households, offering a variety of quality food items completely free of charge and open to all neighbors in need.
Families received:
- Fresh produce sourced from local farms
- Boxes of frozen food and protein
- Hot Chick-fil-A chicken sandwiches and chips
The distribution reflects the collaborative spirit of the Home Plate Project, which brings together local organizations, volunteers, and corporate partners to address hunger in Metro Atlanta’s diverse communities.
A Legacy of Support Since 2020
The Braves Home Plate Project first launched in April 2020 in response to heightened food insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic, initially partnering with Braves concessionaire Delaware North. Since then, it has grown into a staple community effort.
In 2025 alone, the program—presented by Chick-fil-A and supported by dedicated community partners—distributed more than 80,000 pounds of food resources across eight events, reaching an estimated 2,189 households in need.
Braves front office staff, gameday personnel, and volunteers regularly participate in these distributions, helping deliver not just food but also a sense of community support.
As the 2026 baseball season gets underway, the Atlanta Braves remain committed to stepping up beyond the diamond.
Initiatives like the Home Plate Project demonstrate how the organization is working to make a lasting impact on families facing food challenges across Metro Atlanta.
Neighbors interested in future distributions or ways to get involved can visit the Atlanta Braves community page at mlb.com/braves/community for updates.
The Braves Foundation encourages all eligible residents to take advantage of these no-cost resources whenever available. Together, we’re building a stronger, more nourished Braves Country—one plate at a time.
-
Alycia Michelle Parks, the towering talent from Georgia, has emerged as one of American tennis’s most exciting and powerful figures on the WTA Tour.
Born on December 31, 2000, in Atlanta, Georgia, Parks stands at an imposing 6 feet 1 inch (1.85 m), using her height and athleticism to deliver one of the most formidable serves in women’s tennis.
Often hailed as a phenom in her early years for her explosive game and raw potential, she has steadily climbed the ranks, blending power with flair both on and off the court.
What To Know About Alycia Michelle Parks
Early Life and Rise in Tennis
Parks discovered tennis at age 7 under the guidance of her father, Michael Parks, who has coached her since childhood. Growing up in Atlanta (with ties to Henry County, where she practiced at local courts like Richard Craig Park), she showed prodigious talent early on.
At just 13, her serve was clocked at an eye-popping 119 mph, drawing immediate comparisons to legends like Venus and Serena Williams for her power and presence.
To accelerate her development, Parks and her older sister relocated to Florida around age 10 for elite training opportunities, including time at USTA facilities in Boca Raton.
She graduated high school in 2019 and turned down college scholarship offers to pursue a professional career full-time—a bold move that paid dividends as she transitioned quickly to the pro circuit.
Her junior and early pro years highlighted her big-hitting style: right-handed with a two-handed backhand, she thrives on hard courts and uses her reach for devastating serves and groundstrokes.
Professional Breakthrough and Achievements
Parks made her WTA Tour main-draw debut in 2021 at the MUSC Health Open in Charleston, where she notched an early win before falling to top seed Ons Jabeur.
That same year, she made waves at the US Open by tying the record for the fastest women’s serve at the tournament with a 129 mph delivery.
Her breakout came in 2023 when she captured her first WTA singles title at the Lyon Open, defeating top players including a notable win over Caroline Garcia in the final—her first career top-5 victory.
She also excelled in doubles, winning WTA 1000 titles, including the 2023 Western & Southern Open (Cincinnati) with partner Taylor Townsend, and another in Ostrava in 2022.
Parks has added multiple WTA 125 titles to her resume, including singles crowns in Angers, Warsaw, and Gaiba in 2024, showcasing her consistency on the challenger circuit.
Her career-high singles ranking reached No. 40 in August 2023, while her doubles peak hit No. 27.
As of early 2026, she holds a singles ranking around No. 77, with ongoing efforts to regain top-50 form amid a competitive tour.
Notable highlights include strong Grand Slam showings, such as reaching the third round at the 2024 Australian Open (defeating Leylah Fernandez), and upsets like beating No. 1 seed Emma Navarro at the 2025 Monterrey Open.
Recent performances in 2026, including battles in Doha and Dubai qualifiers, demonstrate her continued fight and big-match temperament.
Playing Style and Off-Court Presence
Parks’ game is defined by power: her serve is a weapon, often exceeding 120 mph, and her aggressive baseline play keeps opponents on the defensive. While consistency and error management remain areas for growth (as noted by analysts), her potential for top-10 status is widely discussed when she strings together clean tennis.
Off the court, Parks is known for her bold style, confidence, and partnerships (including campaigns with brands like Batiste and TJ Maxx).
She maintains a strong social media presence on Instagram (@alycia.parks), where she shares training insights, faith-inspired messages (often signing off as “God’s Warrior”), and glimpses into life as a pro. She’s also spoken about inspiring young girls, particularly in the Black tennis community, drawing influence from trailblazers like the Williams sisters.
Looking Ahead
At 25, Alycia Parks remains a phenom with unfinished business. With her Georgia roots, elite athleticism, and proven ability to win big titles, she’s poised for another surge.
Fans watch eagerly for the next breakthrough—whether a deep Grand Slam run or reclaiming her peak ranking—knowing that when her powerful game clicks, few can match her on court. Georgia’s tennis star continues to serve notice: the best may still be yet to come.
Atlanta has a lot of cool things to do and places to eat, including some of the top soul food joints and remarkable Thai food spots. Explore the city.
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com you might like:
-
Michael Jordan added another championship to his trophy case on Sunday, February 15, 2026. Jordan is a co-owner of 23XI Racing (pronounced “twenty-three eleven”), a NASCAR Cup Series team he founded in 2020 with driver Denny Hamlin.
On this date, Tyler Reddick—driving the No. 45 Toyota for 23XI Racing—won the 2026 Daytona 500 in a dramatic, wreck-filled finish.
Jordan’s Racing Team Wins Daytona 500
Reddick led only the final lap, capitalizing on a last-lap crash involving Chase Elliott (who was battling for the lead) to take the checkered flag. This marked:
- 23XI Racing’s first Daytona 500 victory.
- Michael Jordan’s first Daytona 500 win as a team owner (often phrased as “Michael Jordan wins the Daytona 500” in headlines and commentary, despite not driving).
Jordan celebrated in victory lane, hugging Reddick, hoisting the Harley J. Earl trophy, and receiving a Daytona 500 winner’s ring (he jokingly mentioned his ring size 13).
He described the moment as feeling “like I won a championship.”
What’s Next for Jordan?
Atlanta Motor Speedway is in Hampton, GA (near Atlanta), and hosts NASCAR races, including the next event on the 2026 Cup Series schedule after this Daytona 500—the Autotrader 400 (or similar naming) on February 22, 2026.
This Daytona win positions 23XI Racing (and Jordan) strongly heading into that Atlanta race, where Atlanta is a key venue in the series Jordan now succeeds in as an owner.
-
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. recently shared a powerful and deeply personal message on social media that has resonated widely across the Atlanta sports community and beyond.
In the heartfelt post, accompanied by a dramatic image of Penix in his black Falcons jersey standing resolute amid swirling smoke, the 25-year-old signal-caller opened up about the immense pressures he faces as a man, a provider, and a professional athlete.
Penix: I Won’t Fold Under Pressure
“As a man, you carry a lot of ‘pressure’ each and every day,” Penix wrote. “Pressure to provide for your family, pressure to succeed in everything you do in life, pressure of letting everybody around you down. But one thing I never did and never will do is fold in the face of it.”
The lengthy reflection traces Penix’s journey from humble beginnings—”I come from the mud literally”—to his current role as the Falcons’ franchise quarterback.
He emphasized self-reliance, declaring he “never had no handouts” and that his path to success was forged through relentless determination despite pain, uncertainties, and setbacks.
Penix credited his upbringing and faith for his unbreakable mindset: “I’m forever going to stand 10 toes and show why my God is Almighty and will never put me in a situation that I can’t get through.”
The post also served as motivation for others, urging readers to “STAY THERE” wherever they are in their own stories. “The turtle race continues…. 🏁 Year 2 ✓,” he concluded, signaling his ongoing commitment as he enters his second NFL season.
Penix, selected eighth overall by the Falcons in the 2024 NFL Draft after a standout college career at Washington (where he won the Maxwell Award and led the nation in passing yards), has faced his share of challenges.
His rookie year in 2024 included limited action due to competition and development, but he appeared in several games and showed flashes of his strong arm.
In 2025, he took on a larger role, starting nine games and throwing for nearly 2,000 yards with nine touchdowns before a knee injury sidelined him late in the season, landing him on injured reserve.
Now recovering and eyeing a return potentially as early as Week 1 of the upcoming campaign, Penix’s words highlight the mental fortitude required at the NFL level—especially for a young quarterback under the spotlight in a passionate football city like Atlanta.
Fans quickly rallied around the message, praising Penix’s authenticity and resilience.
In a league where vulnerability is rare, his openness about personal struggles while tying it to his faith and drive offers inspiration far beyond the gridiron.
As Penix continues his rehab and preparation for what could be a pivotal year in Atlanta, this post reminds everyone that behind the helmet and the stats is a determined individual refusing to fold—no matter the pressure.
The Falcons and their supporters are standing with him as the “turtle race” marches on.
-
In the ever-evolving world of sports broadcasting, several Major League Baseball (MLB) teams have taken control of their destinies by establishing or partnering in their own regional sports networks (RSNs).
These team-owned or partially owned channels not only broadcast regular-season games but also provide exclusive content, analysis, and behind-the-scenes access, enhancing fan engagement while securing lucrative revenue streams.
MLB Teams Leave Regional Sports Networks? Braves, Your Play
As a hub for sports in the Southeast, Atlanta has a keen interest in this trend, especially with the Atlanta Braves navigating recent upheavals in the RSN market.
Here’s a breakdown of the MLB teams leading the charge with their own TV channels, along with insights into the Braves’ future.
The Rise of Team-Owned Networks
The shift toward team-controlled broadcasting has accelerated in recent years, driven by the instability of traditional RSN operators like FanDuel Sports Network (formerly Bally Sports).
Financial troubles, including bankruptcies and missed payments, have prompted teams to seek more stable, profitable alternatives. According to industry reports, local media accounts for over 20% of MLB’s overall revenue, making these networks critical for team finances.
Teams with ownership stakes in their RSNs can better control distribution, negotiate carriage deals, and explore direct-to-consumer streaming options. This model was pioneered by powerhouses like the New York Yankees and has been adopted by others seeking independence from third-party broadcasters.
Key MLB Teams with Their Own TV Channels
Here’s a list of prominent MLB teams that own or partially own dedicated RSNs broadcasting their games. These networks often feature pre- and post-game shows, documentaries, and other team-specific programming.
- Boston Red Sox: The Red Sox broadcast on NESN (New England Sports Network), fully owned by Fenway Sports Group, which also owns the team. NESN reaches millions in the New England region and has been a staple since 1984.
- New York Yankees: Games air on the YES Network, majority-owned by Yankee Global Enterprises (the team’s parent company). Launched in 2002, YES has become one of the most valuable RSNs, generating significant revenue through high subscriber fees.
- New York Mets: SNY (SportsNet New York) is majority-owned by the Mets’ ownership group. Since 2006, it has provided comprehensive coverage, including Mets games and related content, serving the tri-state area.
- Toronto Blue Jays: Sportsnet, owned by Rogers Communications (which also owns the Blue Jays), handles national and regional broadcasts. This integrated model allows seamless coverage across Canada.
- Baltimore Orioles: The Orioles control MASN (Mid-Atlantic Sports Network), which they own outright following disputes with the Washington Nationals. MASN broadcasts Orioles games to fans in the mid-Atlantic region.
- Chicago Cubs: Marquee Sports Network, launched in 2020, is 50% owned by the Cubs with the other half held by Sinclair Broadcast Group. It offers exclusive Cubs content and has expanded into streaming.
- Chicago White Sox: The White Sox are part of Chicago Sports Network, a joint venture with the NBA’s Bulls and NHL’s Blackhawks. This collaborative RSN debuted in 2024 and focuses on Chicago-based teams.
- Los Angeles Dodgers: Spectrum SportsNet LA is wholly owned by the Dodgers through American Media Productions. Since 2014, it has been the exclusive home for Dodgers games in Southern California. en.wikipedia.org
- Houston Astros: Space City Home Network is a joint venture between the Astros and the NBA’s Rockets. Launched in 2023, it provides local coverage for both teams in the Houston area.
- Texas Rangers: The Rangers operate Victory+, a streaming-first platform under Rangers Sports Network. Introduced in 2024, it’s a direct-to-consumer service that bypasses traditional cable for greater accessibility.
- Philadelphia Phillies: The Phillies hold a 25% stake in NBC Sports Philadelphia, which broadcasts their games alongside other local teams. This partial ownership gives them influence over content and revenue.
- San Francisco Giants: With a 30% ownership in NBC Sports Bay Area, the Giants have a say in their broadcasts, which share the network with the NBA’s Warriors.
Other teams, like the Pittsburgh Pirates (on SportsNet Pittsburgh, owned by Fenway Sports Group via the Penguins), benefit from shared networks but lack direct ownership.
The Atlanta Braves’ Path Forward
Closer to home, the Atlanta Braves have been caught in the crossfire of FanDuel Sports Network’s financial woes.
On February 2, 2026, six MLB teams—the Milwaukee Brewers, Miami Marlins, Kansas City Royals, St. Louis Cardinals, Cincinnati Reds, and Tampa Bay Rays—announced they would partner with MLB for game production and distribution starting this season, leaving FanDuel after missed rights payments.
The Braves, along with the Detroit Tigers and Los Angeles Angels, terminated their deals but have not joined MLB’s in-house media unit.
Instead, the Braves appear poised to launch their own broadcasting venture. In a statement released on Monday, Feb. 2, the team noted they “have been actively preparing for this outcome and are well on our way towards launching a new era in Braves broadcasting.”
Industry sources suggest this could involve a team-owned RSN or a hybrid streaming model similar to the Rangers’ Victory+, potentially increasing accessibility for fans in Georgia and beyond.
This move aligns with the broader trend: as RSN giants falter, teams like the Braves are seizing opportunities to control their narratives and revenues. For Braves fans, it could mean more innovative viewing options, from enhanced apps to exclusive content, without the blackouts that plagued FanDuel.
The Bigger Picture for MLB and Fans
Team-owned networks represent a double-edged sword. They empower clubs financially but can lead to higher costs for viewers if carriage disputes arise. However, with MLB stepping in for 13 teams this season (including recent additions like the Washington Nationals and Seattle Mariners), the league is pushing toward a more unified, fan-friendly model.
As the 2026 season approaches, Atlanta sports enthusiasts will be watching closely.
If the Braves successfully debut their own channel, it could solidify their status as innovators in the Southeast sports scene. Stay tuned to Atlanta Sports Insider for updates on Braves broadcasting and all things MLB.
-
The Atlanta Falcons are poised to part ways with veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins this offseason, according to multiple reports emerging today.
Sources close to the situation, including reporting from The Athletic’s Josh Kendall and Jeff Howe, indicate the team expects to release the 37-year-old signal-caller in early March.
Falcons, Cousins To Part Ways
This move comes after the Falcons and Cousins agreed to restructure his contract earlier this month, shifting most of his 2026 base salary to 2027 and creating a $67.9 million vesting guarantee that would kick in on March 13 if he remains on the roster.
The restructure lowered Cousins’ 2026 base pay from $35 million to $2.1 million, providing Atlanta with immediate cap relief while setting the stage for a clean break before that massive guarantee locks in.
A post-June 1 designation remains possible in some scenarios, but the prevailing expectation points to an outright release by mid-March to avoid the financial hit.
Cousins joined the Falcons on a four-year, $180 million deal in the 2024 offseason, arriving as a proven starter fresh off an Achilles injury from his final season in Minnesota.
The plan was for him to mentor and bridge to first-round pick Michael Penix Jr., selected eighth overall in 2024. However, the transition never fully materialized as envisioned.
Cousins started 14 games in 2024, delivering solid production in his return from injury. In 2025, after Penix suffered a knee injury that sidelined him for much of the second half, Cousins stepped back in and led the team to a 5-3 record in his starts, including a late-season four-game winning streak.
He finished the year with 1,721 passing yards, 10 touchdowns, and five interceptions over those eight appearances, showing he could still move the ball effectively.
Despite that late surge, the Falcons’ front office—now under new leadership with head coach Kevin Stefanski and ongoing general manager search—appears ready to turn the page.
Stefanski, who previously worked with Cousins as offensive coordinator in Minnesota, acknowledged their history but stopped short of committing to the veteran when asked about the quarterback situation.
The decision reflects Atlanta’s commitment to Penix as the long-term starter, even as the young left-hander continues recovering from his knee issue.
Releasing Cousins frees up significant cap space for the team to address other needs or explore veteran additions if Penix isn’t fully ready for Week 1 of the 2026 season.
Cousins, who will turn 38 before the 2026 campaign, remains a respected veteran with a strong track record of accuracy and decision-making.
Reports suggest the Falcons could be open to re-signing him on a more team-friendly deal if he doesn’t land a starting opportunity elsewhere, but the expectation is that he’ll hit free agency and pursue a role where he can compete for QB1 snaps.
For Falcons fans, this marks the end of a brief but eventful chapter.
Final Word
Cousins brought professionalism and production during his time in Atlanta, but the organization’s future is now firmly tied to Penix and whatever direction the new regime charts.
Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for updates as the offseason unfolds, including any potential landing spots for Cousins and how the Falcons plan to build around their young quarterback. Rise up.
