Coronavirus and sports: major events impacted included NBA and NCAA

As the coronavirus continues to spread across the United States, health emergency officials are enforcing changes to major sports leagues. Included in the mix are the NCAA and the NBA. The NCAA will not be allowing crowds during upcoming games, including the March Madness tournament, while the NBA has decided to suspend their current season indefinitely.

Major NBA Decision:

The news that the NBA season was suspended came last night soon after Rudy Gobert of the Utah Jazz was announced having tested positive for the coronavirus. The Utah Jazz and Oklahoma City Thunder game was stopped mid-way due to Gobert being diagnosed with the virus but he never was at the arena during the game.

The Utah Jazz is now under quarantine in Oklahoma City due to being around Gobert. Thunder players were not tested and were sent home after the game. Other teams that have played on the same court in recent days have been told to self-quarantine including the New York Knicks, Detroit Pistons and the Toronto Raptors.

According to ABC News…

The NCAA has not yet decided to suspend their season but will be banning fans from upcoming championship events including Division I men and women’s tournaments. Only limited family and staff members will be allowed on-site. How this will affect the sports betting industry during one of the busiest times of the year is yet to be seen.

NCAA President Mark Emmert stated that he understands the decision is disappointing for fans, but it is one the is based on the understanding currently available involving the coronavirus and its progression.

What Will the NHL Do?

The National Hockey League has yet to make a decision, despite the NBA’s big reveal last night. The league has stated they are aware of the decision made by the basketball league and they are continuing to consult with experts in the medical field and evaluate their options. The NHL is expected to provide a further update this week.