No sports, now what?
It has almost been two weeks since the NBA announced the suspension of their season - just a day after the Chicago Bulls played their last game at the United Center. The league’s decision was the first of many decisions from sports leagues to cancel or postpone major sports events due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Here are three ways the sports community is keeping busy in the absence of sports.
Many sports enthusiasts are rewatching old games and highlights. Last week, NBC Sports Chicago announced that the network would start airing classic BlackHawk and Bulls games celebrating the franchises’ championship titles. Fans have been using the hashtags #Bullsrewind and #Hawksrewind to discuss their favorite championship games.
Other sports fanatics have shifted their attention to Esports, or online multiplayer video game competitions. One Twitter user (@wes_compton) said, “I never thought I’d say this[.] I’ve been one to make jokes about it, but I might have to resort to watching esports to fill this big hole of no sports in my life.” Even some professional teams like the NBA’s Phoenix Suns have joined the online world of gaming by announcing to fans on March 12th that the team would continue to play opponents through NBA2K on Twitch, a live streaming platform.
Fans are also exploring other competitions. On Twitter some sports enthusiasts are watching and discussing uploaded videos of races between colorful marbles through unique obstacle courses. Viewers wait to watch and even gamble on which marbles will cross the finish line first. These races can be found via YouTube. One user (@violetteLeah) tweeted, “For anyone complaining about sports events getting canceled, I recommend giving marble races a chance! Lots of action, very entertaining! They even have their own league! Marbula 1.”
‼️ Do you like any of these alternatives? How are you keeping busy during this time? Share your thoughts below!