NBA shifts Pacers–Hawks tipoff to afternoon as winter weather forces schedule change
The NBA moved Indiana at Atlanta from an evening start to an early afternoon tip on Monday, January 26, 2026, citing severe winter weather across parts of the Mid-Atlantic and South. The change created last-minute logistics issues for fans but preserved the game on local TV, radio, and streaming options.
Game time moved up by six hours
The NBA adjusted its schedule for Monday, January 26, 2026, moving the Indiana Pacers at Atlanta Hawks game to 1:30 p.m. ET after widespread winter weather advisories impacted large portions of the country. The contest had originally been listed for a 7:30 p.m. local start, meaning the change compressed travel and planning windows for teams, staff, media, and ticket holders.
According to the report, the league issued a short notice update as snow, sleet, and ice created safety concerns and threatened movement throughout the region. The rescheduling was presented as a practical step to reduce risk around pregame arrivals and postgame travel as conditions deteriorated.
How fans could still watch and listen
While an earlier start can be disruptive—especially for fans who planned to attend after work—the report noted that the matchup would remain available through the usual broadcast and audio partners, including regional sports coverage and a local radio option, plus streaming access where available.
The shift also illustrated how weather can ripple through the pro sports calendar in real time, forcing leagues to make operational decisions quickly to protect travel safety and keep the broader schedule intact.