FILE – NBA Commissioner Adam Silver unveils the NBA All-Star Game Kobe Bryant MVP Award during a news conference Saturday, Feb. 15, 2020, in Chicago. (AP Photo/David Banks)
MANILA, Philippines—NBA Commissioner on Saturday expressed his gratitude to the league’s fans for their understanding following the indefinite suspension of the games due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.
In a letter, Silver said the suspension will last “at least” a month and games will eventually resume if they deem that the situation is safe enough.
“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,” said Silver.
“That is what the NBA will continue to do, and we are grateful for your understanding and for being the best fans in sports.”
The NBA suspended its season on Thursday after Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert tested positive for COVID-19 on that same night the Jazz were scheduled to play the Oklahoma City Thunder in Oklahoma City. Gobert’s fellow All-Star teammate Donovan Mitchell also went on to test positive for COVID-19.
Silver added that fans who bought their tickets for the postponed games will still be able to use their passes once the season gets back underway.
“We will continue to coordinate with infectious disease and public health experts along with government officials to determine safe protocols for resuming our games,” said Silver.