I think it depends on the sport. I would consider the Braves large market, but not the Hawks. The "Market" is the fan base, not population. It doesn't matter how populated Atlanta gets, if the fans follow other teams they will remain smaller market.
The Braves have a following all over the Southeast region dating back to the old superstation 17 days when anyone could watch.
The Hawks mainly have a following within the metro area as opposed to statewide. With ATL being a transplant city, the market will remain smaller until grabbing the attention of the next generation.
We have the potential to grow as a market, but we first have to offer a good product (which we have) as well as break thru the fanhood of these well established transplant citizens. If they have been lifelong Knicks Laker or Celtic fans, it will be difficult to break through this loyalty. Yet maybe their kids will become Hawks fans and that is where the market can grow.
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