Thursday provided a positive step towards basketball returning to the home of the Golden State Warriors. There’s still uncertainty around the next time Chase Center will host an NBA game, but practice inside the facility could resume soon.
Mayor London Breed unveiled a multi-phase plan for San Francisco’s reopening. Breed listed the target date of June 15 for Phase 2B, which includes the return of professional sports with no spectators. Prior to June 15, professional sports practices could return with an approved plan.
After Breed’s announcement, Golden State released a statement on their plan for the potential return of voluntary practices at their San Francisco based facility.
Once we receive approval by the County Health Officer, we plan to open our practice facility for voluntary workouts with our players. In doing so, we will follow all health and safety protocols and procedures implemented by the NBA, the City and County and our own additional Covid-19 measures.
Via Connor Letourneau on Twitter:
According to a report from Anthony Slater of The Athletic, The Warriors are “hopeful” to open their practice facility as soon as June 1.
Via Anthony Slater on Twitter:
When the league returns to action, the Warriors technically have 17 games remaining on the slate. If the NBA opts to resume the season with a direct path towards a type of a playoff format for the 2020 title, Golden State’s year is likely over.
However, with injuries to both Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson, and roster additions like Andrew Wiggins, reopening Chase Center is crucial. The Splash Brother duo getting familiar with Wiggins on the practice floor is a vital box the Warriors need to check off as the offseason approaches.
