Any of you thinking about crashing Disney's ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex to catch glimpses of NBA stars when the Association heads to Florida for its 22-team model to complete the 2019-20 season may want to reconsider.
On Thursday, ESPN's Tim Bontemps reported that "local, state and federal law enforcement, plus former special operations forces" will be employed to secure the bubble site and keep NBA personnel safe from any intruders:
The NBA shared with players they will use local, state and federal law enforcement, plus former special operations forces, to secure the bubble in Orlando, league sources told ESPN.
— Tim Bontemps (@TimBontemps) June 25, 2020
Still not convinced? You won't want to post your invasion plans on Facebook or Twitter, as authorities intend to monitor social-media networks:
In addition, social media networks will be monitored by Walt Disney Security, NBA Global Security and the Department of Homeland Security for potential threats, and will share intelligence. https://t.co/FuZhXVLzJd
— Tim Bontemps (@TimBontemps) June 25, 2020
Presumably, such tactics could also be used to monitor players and ensure they're remaining in the bubble and adhering to social-distancing guidelines.
Following multiple positive coronavirus test results earlier this week, PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan told reporters players who don't follow protocols for social distancing and other safety guidelines will face punishments for threatening tournaments and, possibly, the season.
On Monday, Orlando Pride had to withdraw from the NWSL Challenge Cup after multiple players returned positive COVID-19 tests.
Under the current agreement between owners and the players, family members aren't allowed to travel to the NBA bubble site until after the first round of the postseason tournament.
Teams are expected to begin arriving to the Florida complex on or around July 7.
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