NBA Response to Coronavirus was a PR Slam Dunk

The NBA showed a commitment to social responsibility that prioritized people over profits and became an unexpected leader during the country’s coronavirus crisis.

On March 11th, the NBA decided to suspend their regular season indefinitely after Rudy Gobert tested positive for coronavirus. It was a difficult and expensive decision but the correct one. Soon, other sports leagues followed suit with the MLS, NHL, and MLB all suspending its season.

NBA commissioner Adam Silver appeared on ESPN to discuss his reasoning to suspend the season and provide insight on what needs to take place for the season to resume. Silver was transparent when asked why incredibly athletic players were being tested for coronavirus while normal citizens were struggling to receive or even be considered for a test. He acknowledged the criticism but stated that the NBA is following the recommendation of public health officials who viewed NBA players as super spreaders. 

Since then, the NBA has launched a new global campaign titled NBA Together. The campaign is centered around four pillars- Know the Facts, Acts of Caring, Expand Your Community and NBA Together Live - with the hope of raising more than $50 million to help healthcare organizations and communities impacted by the coronavirus. 

Some highlights of the campaign include urging players and fans to share how they are supporting friends and families by posting the videos or images on social media with the hashtag #NBATogether. They also started an interactive content series that features activities for those that want to work on their game while practicing social distancing. Also, the NBA had its stars encourage fans to stay safe and had them chat with fans on the official NBA account on Instagram Live every weekday.

The NBA rose to the occasion and has done a fantastic job helping sports fans during unprecedented times. There is a popular meme on social media that expresses how ball is life. Now we know that statement is true.