Written by Since the suspension of the NBA due to COVID-19, we have longed for its return.
Beginning July 30th, at Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Florida, the NBA is back. This sports complex has three arenas for games and hotels to accommodate the players and their families. This will limit outside exposure while the season continues.
The plan is to end the season no later than October 13th. Eight remaining games from the regular season will be played (selected from a team’s remaining regular-season matchups), and the playoffs will follow. Most teams in the league will end up playing either 72 or 73 games, after the eight “seeding games.” Teams will also compete in three inter-squad scrimmages from July 22-28 in final preparation for the season’s resumption.
The main difference between a “normal” season and this season is the absence of fans. Other than that, the playoffs will follow the traditional format with the best-of-seven series in the first round, conference semifinals, conference finals, and, lastly, The Finals.
Returning Teams:
Only 22 teams will return to the 2019-20 season. The Eastern Conference includes these teams ( listed in alphabetical order):
- Boston Celtics
- Brooklyn Nets
- Indiana Pacers
- Miami Heat
- Milwaukee Bucks
- Orlando Magic
- Philadelphia 76ers
- Toronto Raptors
- Washington Wizards
The Western Conference teams:
- Dallas Mavericks
- Denver Nuggets
- Houston Rockets
- LA Clippers
- Los Angeles Lakers
- Memphis Grizzlies
- New Orleans Pelicans
- Oklahoma City Thunder
- Phoenix Suns
- Portland Trail Blazers
- Sacramento Kings
- San Antonio Spurs
- Utah Jazz
Amenities in the NBA Bubble:
Since the NBA is trying to contain the Coronavirus outside of the “NBA Bubble,” many amenities have been made available to the players and their families. The 22 teams will be divided into three hotels: The Gran Destino, The Grand Floridian, and The Yacht Club. Each hotel is planning to provide the players with comedy shows, live DJs, movies, ping pong tables, video games, and many more activities. If wanted, players are allowed to attend other teams’ games to watch them play. Additionally, each player will have access to concierge lounges, barbershops, and pools. I guess you could say that the new difference amazing?
Although the continued season with the absence of fans is something that we have never experienced before, everyone is excited for the return of the NBA. Grab your favorite team throw blanket before the start of the season, and get ready to cheer on your favorite team from the comfort of your own home!
Check out our website for all of your needs for the return of the NBA today!
Header Image: Theringer.com (Getty Images/Ringer illustration)