Golden State Warriors game against Brooklyn Nets without fans could be must-see TV
The Golden State Warriors will host the first major pro sporting event in the United States without fans in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Fans aren’t allowed when the Brooklyn Nets come to Chase Center in San Francisco Thursday night.
The New York Times’ Marc Stein first reported the game will be played without fans after city officials banned gatherings of more than 1,000 people for the next two weeks as a precaution against COVID-19, the coronavirus that has killed 29 people in the U.S. The Bay Area has confirmed at least 105 people have contracted the virus.
“All events at Chase Center through March 21 will be canceled or postponed at this time,” the Warriors announced on Twitter. “We’ll continue to monitor this evolving situation closely to determine best steps. We appreciate the understanding and patience of our fans, guests and partners.”
The Warriors leave for a five-game road trip after Thursday’s game. They don’t return home for a game until March 25.
The Warriors have been one of the hottest tickets in the NBA since 2014 although they’ve struggled this season because of injuries.
Lakers star LeBron James has backtracked on his refusal to play without fans last week.
Much of the reaction to the sans fans game on social media has included many interested in watching a broadcast of the game. Fans are especially excited with the potential to hear players talking trash with no fan noise in the arena.
No national broadcast has been announced but it seems likely that broadcast partners would inquire about airing the game.
This story was originally published March 11, 2020 at 5:41 PM.
