logo
Getty images
Getty images

LeBron James Says He Doesn't Want to Play in Fanless NBA Games Amid Fears over Coronavirus

Comfort Omovre
By Comfort Omovre
Mar 16, 2020
10:20 P.M.

LA Lakers superstar LeBron James recently threatened to boycott games if the NBA goes on with its plans to have games played without fans, to control the spread of the Coronavirus.

Advertisement

To protect fans from the fast-spreading Coronavirus, the NBA issued a memo to its franchises stating that they could have games played without fans in attendance.

The NBA earlier said that it wasn't currently considering canceling games outrightly but asked teams to be prepared for such a scenario as the cases of people affected by the deadly virus continue to rise.

LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers at American Airlines Center | Photo: Getty Images

LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers at American Airlines Center | Photo: Getty Images

Not so many stakeholders of the round leather game are thrilled on the idea of having to play without the fans cheering.

Advertisement

NBA legend LeBron James is not happy about the idea. Reacting to the memo sent out to teams by the sports body, James said:

"Play games without the fans? No, that's impossible...I ain't playing."

Advertisement

Also commenting on the planned fan shutout, owner of Houston Rockets, Tilman Fertitta said he would prefer if games were suspended for two or three weeks rather than to play without fans.

But as the fears over the spread of the COVID-19 virus continue to grow, it seems LeBon James has had a rethink on his initial stance.

Rudy Gobert who plays center for the Utah Jazz, reportedly, contracted the highly contagious COVID-19 virus.

Advertisement

When responding to questions regarding the issue this week, the talented player said he understands the position of the NBA in wanting to protect fans and players.

James also said that when he made his first remarks regarding the memo, he had no idea that there were already extensive conversations going on about the virus. James told reporters:

"If they feel like it's best for the safety of the players, the safety of the franchise, the safety of the league to mandate that, then we all listen to it."

Advertisement

Meanwhile, after a Utah Jazz player tested positive for the Coronavirus, the NBA has decided to suspend games indefinitely.

Rudy Gobert, who plays center for the Utah Jazz, reportedly contracted the highly contagious COVID-19 virus, forcing the NBA to issue a suspension of all its games.

Lebron James took to Twitter to air his displeasure at the announcement made by the NBA, stating that the whole year has been a disappointing one.

Someone who seems to be in total support of the suspension is Golden State Warriors star player Stephen Curry, who assured fans that the game would be back soon, but now, everyone must protect themselves and their loved ones.

Advertisement
Advertisement
Related posts

Brandon Clarke's Sister Shares Emotional Statement About Family Loss

May 15, 2026

NBA Star Brandon Clarke Found in Shocking State at 29 — Investigation Underway

May 13, 2026

Claude Lemieux’s Friend Shares Details About His Final Days in a Social Media Post

May 29, 2026

NHL Legend Claude Lemieux's Family Raises Alarm, Sparks Search at Florida Business

May 29, 2026

Claude Lemieux's Final Public Appearance Just Days Before Tragic End — Photos

May 29, 2026

Jason Collins Passes Away at 47 After Long Health Battle — Final Posts Reveal Touching Details

May 13, 2026

Claude Lemieux Passed Away at 60 After Emotional Return to Montreal — What We Know

May 29, 2026

Suspected Hantavirus Outbreak Leaves Cruise Ship Passengers Trapped as Three Passed Away – Details

May 05, 2026

First Openly Gay NBA Player Jason Collins, 47, Dies Year After Wedding to Husband

May 12, 2026

Claude Lemieux's Final Days Reveal Heartbreaking Truth Behind Hockey Star's Struggles

June 01, 2026

After Days on the Hantavirus-Hit Cruise Ship, 17 Americans Have Been Evacuated – What We Know

May 11, 2026