SportsWise

The devastating effect of the coronavirus

John: Today, we have a very special and touchy subject. We're talking about the coronavirus and how it has affected the sports world. Donald?

Donald: It’s bringing out the compassion in corporations. Sports teams are helping stadium workers. "Yeah, we're not playing the game, but let's go non and help these workers who're cleaning up the stadiums, because they're gonna keep it clean until we get back to playing." When the NBA made the shocking decision to suspend the season amidst the coronavirus outbreak, it set off a monumental chain-reaction throughout the sports world. Now, that's not all it has affected, but it started with the NBA. They've since touched the workers with support and assurances that they won't be left behind. Pretty much, "just keep doing it until we're back...according to the rules and regs."

Russ: I'm very disappointed with the sports situation. But I understand you gotta do what you gotta do. I'm taking this very seriously, this coronavirus madness. Last week, NBA's Rudy Gobert tested positive. Before knowing, he rubbed all the mics and hugged his teammates, while making his point that things weren't that serious. It's no joking matter, man. It's serious, man. People are dying, man. I'm glad they decided to cancel all the sports, even though nothing's left to watch on TV anymore. Let's just pray it passes us by... soon...so we can get back with our sports.

Patrick: It didn't quite hit me until I heard the NBA suspended its season. At that time, two weeks seemed like it--didn't sound that bad-- but now we know it's going to be much longer, along with some other sports. The announcement's impact will, however, help convince folks who may not have been completely serious about the coronavirus. In regard to sports, though, I’m disappointed that we won't get any season conclusions. And it's not because of any team or teams I may follow; just that they've battled this season and are near the half. But, obviously, there are more important things in this whole thing, and primary on that list: Human lives.

John: I find it fascinating that although the risk of contracting it is lower than any other flu or virus, the reaction appears over the top. Now, we are in unchartered territory as far as who can get it, how to attack it, and why there is no vaccine yet. Then, we have stories such as the two NBA players, prior to testing positive, going up to play the Toronto Raptors; fortunately, the Raptors team tested negative. Basically, I’m getting mixed messages: On one hand, the low odds of contracting the virus, as well as a high recovery rate, take precedence; on the other, the world appears to be panicking. It’s fascinating…and confusing. I do, however, understand the “pause” because we don’t want this to worsen. Final thoughts?

Donald: Everything began with Kobe’s death, and then this situation arose and I believe John: Be vigilant...but in control. Panic can often make things worse. We got this, it could be something such as a hit by an enemy organization, releasing this virus. Let’s look at the real deal, Holyfield: Someone meant to do this.

Russ: I’m glad teams are preparing to continue to pay the workers. We’ll be okay; we just have to look out for one another.

Patrick: For many, this is their main income. However, I’m with John with the confusion of the stats. I’ve read that 99% of the people who fall ill with this recover—some in two/ three weeks, the more extreme, six to eight weeks. If death's the fear, then perhaps we need to get better with dealing with that. Although an incredibly unfortunate situation, this could be a wakeup call for healing within.

John: Be vigilant...but in control. Panic can often make things worse. We got this,