NBA in December 2020

The National Basketball Association (NBA) Board of Governors unanimously agreed to adjustments to its 2020-2021 season so that it can go ahead, albeit with a few changes. The season commences on NBA in December 2020, and fans eagerly await a chance to enjoy watching their teams in action over the coming months.

A year of disruptions

Basketball, like all sports, experienced disruptions as the ripple effect of COVID-19 was felt worldwide. There have been several proposed season launch dates, with some indications that it would only commence in late January 2021. However, this tentative date was brought forward to December 22, 2020. Pre-season games take place between December 11-19, 2020.

As plans to mitigate the effects of COVID-19 are being explained to the public, Pennsylvania online sports betting operators are sensing a great deal of excitement among fans. A resumption of NBA in December 2020 brings back a semblance of normality to an otherwise abnormal year-end.

Nets fans are anticipating the expected return of Kevin Durant after he missed last season due to injury. His presence was sorely missed.   

Schedule changes

Several changes were necessary to adapt to the NBA in December 2020 to America’s new normal. Therefore, this year’s season features 72 games instead of the traditional 82. However, this will not preclude you from adding basketball viewing to your list of quarantine Christmas ideas to keep everyone entertained this festive season.  

Usually, teams play four games against ten opposing teams in their conference and another three against the remaining four. This season, only three games between teams in each conference are scheduled.

Additionally, the NBA in December 2020 has only released part of its season schedule for games between December 22, 2020 and March 4, 2021. This gives NBA in December 2020 decision-makers flexibility to make changes if COVID-19 demands them.

Changed conditions

Teams will play two consecutive games in one city against their opponents to avoid unnecessary travel. This measure aims to protect players from contracting the virus during transit. Only 45 people can be part of each team’s travel party.

Should a player test positive, games might not be cancelled. Such decisions will be made on an ad hoc basis by authorities. Right now, too many unknown variables will only reveal themselves once the season starts.

Players are expected to behave responsibly and take precautions to protect themselves from the virus. This includes wearing masks, social distancing, and limiting outings to those strictly necessary.

As to whether you can watch your favorite team playing live on the court, that depends on who you support. Team management structures decide on fan presence, aligning themselves with state and local regulations. Even so, it is doubtful that the stands will be packed to full capacity.