The NBA has vetoed plans by the Atlanta Hawks to hold a promotional collaboration with a strip club at one of their games next week.
The Hawks had intended to partner with Atlanta-based adult entertainment venue Magic City for the visit of Orlando Magic in the Eastern Conference on 16 March.
There were no plans to host adult entertainment at the Hawks’ State Farm Arena home before, during or after the game but concerns arose at the NBA over the idea of partnering with a strip club.
The Hawks had described Magic City as an “iconic cultural institution” in a story on their website promoting the event and had announced plans relating to food, music and merchandise as part of a “Magic City Monday” in-arena experience.
NBA commissioner Adam Silver said the league “reached out to the Hawks leadership” in order to “better understand their plans and rationale” before deciding to step in.
“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,” Silver said.
“I believe canceling this promotion is the right decision for the broader NBA community.”
The Hawks said that they were “disappointed” by the NBA’s decision but “fully respect” it.
A statement added: “As a franchise we remain committed to celebrating the best of Atlanta – with authenticity – in ways that continue to unite and brings us all together.”