On Wednesday morning the World Health Organization declared the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis to be a pandemic, and less than 12 hours later the NBA was grappling with one of its players testing positive.
Upon determining Rudy Gobert had contracted coronavirus, the NBA suspended the remainder of its season indefinitely. The MLS is also halting its season because of coronavirus outbreak concerns.
The NBA’s announcement came as the Los Angeles Dodgers and Milwaukee Brewers were playing through rain at Camelback Ranch. Regulars such as Cody Bellinger, Mookie Betts, Walker Buehler and Justin Turner were among those who were removed after four innings.
Upon arriving at the clubhouse at Camelback Ranch, Turner spoke with reporters and expressed hope the NBA’s decision would not necessarily lead to a similar one from MLB, per Bill Plunkett of the Southern California News Group:
“We know as much as you guys do,” said Turner (the Dodgers’ representative to the players’ union). “So, when it comes out and stuff is getting announced, we’re finding out just like you guys are. Just going, day by day.
“I think everyone was a little shocked today to hear about the NBA and, obviously, when something like that happens it could affect other leagues and their decisions. Hopefully, it doesn’t affect our season.”
Hours after Turner’s remarks, the California Department of Public Health suggested cancelling or postponing all gatherings of at least 250 people.
Then on Thursday, MLB suspended Spring Training games, indefinitely posted World Baseball Classic qualifier games, and delayed Opening Day by at least two weeks.
Earlier this week, MLB, MLS, NBA and NHL issued a joint statement that outlined clubhouse and locker room access being limited to players and essential staff members.
“After consultation with infectious disease and public health experts, and given the issues that can be associated with close contact in pre- and post-game settings, all team locker rooms and clubhouses will be open only to players and essential employees of teams and team facilities until further notice,” it read.
“Media access will be maintained in designated locations outside of the locker room and clubhouse setting. These temporary changes will be effective beginning with [Tuesday’s] games and practices. We will continue to closely monitor this situation and take any further steps necessary to maintain a safe and welcoming environment.”
Some MLB clubs had reportedly began to explore alternative options in the event they are unable to play home games at their designated stadium.
San Francisco Mayor London Breed banned all large gatherings (described as at least 1,000 people), including for Golden State Warriors games, for at least the next two weeks in effort to curb coronavirus spreading.
The S.F. Giants subsequently announced they will not play a March 24 exhibition game at Oracle Park against the Oakland Athletics. Before the NBA suspended its season, the Warriors were slated to play Thursday without fans in attendance.
Washington Governor Jay Inslee restricted gatherings of more than 250 people in three counties, including where the Seattle Mariners play their home games. In a statement, the Mariners said they were consulting with MLB to develop alternative plans for games that were scheduled at T-Mobile Park.
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