ATLANTA, GA — Basketball is officially back in Atlanta.
The Atlanta Hawks opened their 2026 preseason Monday at State Farm Arena, falling 132-123 to the Memphis Grizzliesin their first exhibition game of the new campaign. Grizzlies
Atlanta actually held a 35-32 advantage after the opening quarter before Memphis took control in the second. The Grizzlies scored 49 points in the period and entered halftime with an 81-61 lead.
The Hawks responded with a stronger second half and managed to cut into the deficit, but the comeback ultimately fell short. Corey Kispert led Atlanta with 19 points, while Nickeil Alexander-Walker scored 14 and Asa Newell contributed 12. Peachtree Hoops
For Atlanta, preseason is less about the final record and more about evaluating lineups, younger players and potential rotations before games begin counting in the standings.
The Hawks’ regular season is scheduled to begin October 21 on the road against Orlando.
(Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images)
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