ATL Hawks, LLC | 2,240 followers on LinkedIn. Atlanta Hawks & Philips Arena Overview: The Atlanta Hawks began their inaugural season in Atlanta in 1968 and now play in the Southeast Division, along with the Charlotte Bobcats, Miami Heat, Orlando Magic and Washington Wizards. Philips Arena is a 20,000-seat sports and entertainment venue located in the heart of downtown Atlanta. Philips Arena has hosted more than 25 million patrons since opening in September 1999.