NBA shifts Pacers vs. Hawks tipoff earlier as winter weather disrupts travel and scheduling

Game time moved up amid severe weather

The NBA adjusted its schedule for Monday, January 26, 2026, moving the Indiana Pacers at Atlanta Hawks game to an earlier start time as winter weather threatened travel and operations. The matchup was shifted from an evening slot to a 1:30 p.m. ET tipoff, a significant change announced close to game day.

The decision came as storms across wide swaths of the United States produced snow, sleet, and ice, complicating transportation and increasing the likelihood of delays for teams, staff, and spectators. League schedule changes during weather events are not unusual, but the size of the time shift underscored how disruptive conditions had become.

Impact on fans and viewing plans

Moving a game up by several hours can create practical problems for fans who planned to attend after work or travel from outside the city. Ticket holders may need to alter transportation plans, childcare arrangements, or lodging, while arena operations and local transit can face strain during winter storm conditions.

Broadcasters and regional networks also need to make rapid programming changes, updating schedules and coordinating production crews in a challenging environment. The coverage plan included regional television and radio options, along with streaming availability, to ensure fans could still follow the game despite disruptions.

A wider weather-driven sports ripple

Across sports, the same winter system has influenced travel and event planning, with teams monitoring conditions and leagues prioritizing safety. The NBA adjustment reflects a common storm response strategy: reduce exposure by starting earlier, limit late-night travel risk, and keep schedules flexible as forecasts change.

For fans in affected regions, officials continue to recommend checking local advisories, allowing extra time for travel, and watching for additional schedule changes as the storm’s cold and ice hazards persist.