Citing Coronavirus fears, the NBA has suspended its regular season until further notice.
The postponement comes on the news Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert has tested positive for the virus, despite fans filling Chesapeake Energy Arena.
Both teams took to the court shortly before scheduled tip-off. After a delay, the reason was revealed. The PA announcer said the game was postponed and asked fans to leave the arena in an orderly manner. The Golden State Warriors became the first team to block the public as they prepared to play in an empty arena.
Millions (if not billions) of dollars will be lost as there is no time frame for the games to resume. The NBA said they will review safety procedures. Outside the NBA labor dispute and shocking passing of Kobe Bryant, the organization has never canceled games on a wide-range scale like this.
The NBA playoffs are set to start in mid-April however, most teams have fewer than 20 games. The NBA’s decision pushes the playoffs into the summer and affects the NBA Draft, free agency and entire offseason.
Earlier on Wednesday, the NCAA blocked March Madness games from the public. With the NBA announcement, they may follow suit and curtail all collegiate athletic events at arenas and stadiums.
