NBA commissioner Adam Silver on Thursday night released a message to fans addressing the league’s decision to suspend the season because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Silver notes that the hiatus will last at least 30 days and that, if games for which fans purchased tickets do not take place or are played in empty arenas, that teams will provide refunds or credit toward a future game.
Below is Silver’s message:
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Dear NBA Fan,
As you know, we have temporarily suspended our season in response to the coronavirus pandemic. We made this decision to safeguard the health and well-being of fans, players, everyone connected to our game and the general public. This hiatus will last at least 30 days and we intend to resume the season, if and when it becomes safe for all concerned.In the meantime, we will continue to coordinate with infectious disease and public health experts along with government officials to determine safe protocols for resuming our games. As we develop the appropriate course for future NBA games and events, we will keep you informed of any changes as soon as they happen. Tickets already purchased for a postponed game will be honored when the game is rescheduled. If games are not played or played in an empty arena, teams will work with fans on a credit for a future game or a refund.
We encourage you to visit NBA.com for the latest news, updates and interactive features to stay connected to the game. You will also find guidelines on how to keep yourself and your family safe and healthy.
This remains a complicated and rapidly evolving situation that reminds us that we are all part of a broader society with a responsibility to look out for one another. That is what the NBA will continue to do, and we are grateful for your understanding and for being the best fans in sports.
Sincerely,
Adam Silver
NBA Commissioner
Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell of the Utah Jazz have tested positive for the coronavirus in the last two days.
A team official told NBC Sports Philadelphia on Thursday that Sixers players, coaches and select support staff have been advised to begin a temporary self-quarantine. The team is arranging testing for the coronavirus for players, the official said, in addition to staff who came in close contact or exhibit symptoms.
The league has informed teams of new policies effective through Monday, per The Athletic’s Shams Charania.
The Wells Fargo Center, where the Sixers had gone 29-2 this season, released a statement Thursday indicating all events scheduled through March 31 will be rescheduled.
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