The Golden State Warriors (NBA) will play tomorrow night’s game versus the Brooklyn Nets before an empty house in response to the coronavirus crisis, while also cancelling all other Chase Center events through March 21.
The decision comes after Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, warned this morning that the coronavirus crisis will worsen and asks the NBA to play games in empty arenas to lessen exposures.
Scheduled events through March 21 at Chase Center include:
- Friday, March 13 – Tame Impala (postponed)
- Saturday, March 14 – Santa Cruz Warriors vs. Austin Spurs (moved to Santa Cruz; will be played in empty arena)
- Thursday, March 19 – Post Malone (cancelled or postponed — TBD)
- Saturday, March 21 – Bell Biv Devoe & Friends (postponed)
In testimony today before the House Oversight and Reform Committee, Fauci–tapped as the Trump Administration’s lead on government management of the current crisis–says that the coronavirus crisis will deepen and that both private businesses and individuals must prepare for the worst. Now qualified as a global pandemic by the World Health Organization, local municipalities have stepped in to address management: Santa Clara County has ordered a stop to public gatherings, leading the San Jose Sharks (NHL) to look at playing games before an empty house or moving them to a different arena.
According to a press release issued by the Warriors, “We will continue to monitor this evolving situation closely to determine next steps for future games and events. We appreciate the understanding and patience of our fans, guests and partners during this unprecedented time.”
