OKC Thunder will begin season without fans in attendance

The OKC Thunder walk back decision to have fans in attendance due to surging COVID-19 cases.

Today is the official start of training camp for the OKC Thunder and as such players will begin holding individual workouts. By Saturday, groups of players will be conducting practices together.  December 11th will usher in the preseason and on December 22nd, the Lakers will receive their rings as the 2020-21 season tips off.

Much like the end of last season, this basketball campaign will be taking place in the midst of a pandemic. Last March, (the 11th to be precise) as the Thunder and Jazz prepared to take to the Chesapeake Energy Arena hardwood the game was called before the tip due to a positive COVID-19 test by Rudy Gobert. Within hours the entire NBA had shut down for a four-month hiatus and would recommence in a bubble at Walt Disney World.

Although the 2020-21 season will play out back in the team’s venues it won’t be under typical circumstances.

Each of the 30 teams in the association will make a call on having fans in attendance at games. Even if they elect to have fans on site they will be required to practice safe distancing and abide by specific rules and regulations such as wearing masks.

No fans at Chesapeake to start OKC Thunder season

Initially, the OKC Thunder were among the teams who were going to allow fans to attend games under the health and safety protocols suggested. However, the franchise is walking back that choice.  In a formal press release, the team announced they will begin the season without fans at Chesapeake Energy Arena. The reason provided is the ongoing surge of cases and hospitalizations in Oklahoma City.

The franchise notes they intend to monitor the situation constantly with a view to when they will be able to open the doors to allow fans (albeit still a limited number) back in the building.

"“We will take all necessary steps to create a safe environment for those who will be in attendance for games as the upcoming season begins, including players, coaches, staff, media and broadcasters.”"

As noted, the NBA preseason games will begin on December 11th, but the Thunder will play their first match on Saturday, December 12th at 6:00 p.m. in San Antonio versus the Spurs. The first preseason home games will feature former Thunder head coach Billy Donovan and his new team the Chicago Bulls. Those dates are Wednesday, December 16th (7:00 pm) and Friday, December 18th (7:00 p.m.).

The league is separating the season into two halves with the first running from December 22nd to March 4th and the second from March 11th to May 16th. Scheduling will only be provided initially for the first half. This in an effort to allow for flexibility if games need to be shifted, postponed, and rescheduled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

This season will undoubtedly be precarious at times given this pandemic. The hope is with the country expected to begin the process of vaccinating soon that fans will eventually be able to return to venues and enjoy Thunder basketball live.

As always, we extend our wishes for everyone to stay safe and healthy.