Fears over NBA Restart as Coronavirus Cases Soar in Florida

The 2019-20 NBA season was due to restart at the Disney World resort in Florida next month but a significant rise in coronavirus cases in the state could prove to be a real problem in the coming weeks.

22 NBA teams are due to take part in a compacted end of season series of matches, all due to take place in Orlando, Florida, but coronavirus cases in the state have risen to over 4000 a day and as such there are now virtual town hall conversations between players and officials taking place.

One possible upside in the situation is the fact that central Florida, where Walt Disney World is located, hasn’t been hit as hard as other areas but NBA spokesman Mike Bass has told reporters that the league is closely monitoring the situation.

Similarly NBPA executive director Michele Roberts has stated on the matter;

“Can’t say I am surprised, given the state’s approach to reopening. We are obviously clearly monitoring the situation. While we take some solace in knowing our players will not travel commercially to get to Orlando, that access to the campus is severely limited and, of course, all of the other health and safety protocols in place, the numbers will keep our attention. If necessary to add further restrictions respecting those third parties having access to the campus, we will seek to implement them.”

Most teams are due to arrive in Orlando in the first week of July though Toronto, the only non-US franchise taking part, are set to arrive in the near future.

No games are set to take place until July 30th and players will begin to be tested around June 23rd