The NBA has announced that it will be suspending the 2019/20 regular season indefinitely after the conclusion of tonight’s games.
According to the league’s announcement, it will use the hiatus to “determine next steps for moving forward in regard to the coronavirus pandemic.”
A Jazz player, Rudy Gobert, has tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19), the NBA confirmed in its statement, adding that the test was conducted shortly before the tipoff of tonight’s Utah/Oklahoma City game, which was ultimately postponed.
The rapid spread of the coronavirus is causing cancellations and postponements of sporting events around the globe.
As of this afternoon, there have been at least 116,000 coronavirus cases worldwide, according to CBS News.
While 64,000 people have recovered, more than 4,000 have died.
In America, multiple states are under a state of emergency and some politicians and public health officials are recommending large gatherings of people — including sporting events — in coronavirus hotspots be canceled or closed to the public.
As college basketball’s postseason, MLB Opening Day and the NBA and NHL stretch runs approach, the coronavirus is set to have a serious effect on American sports.
Abroad, soccer games in Europe are already being played in empty arenas without fans in certain countries.