Corona virus ends sports as we know it

It is no secret America, the world really, is sports crazy. But that crazy has been outplayed by the hysteria that is the Corona virus, known as COVID-19.

Originating in Wuhan, China, the virus has seemingly spread all over the world, and does not appear to be stopping soon.

Click here for a full background on COVID

Though it started in 2019, effects weren't really felt on a widespread level in the United States until March of this year. It began slowly, but on the week of March 9, things seemingly exploded with confirmed cases across the country.

What has followed has been a mix of misinformation, hysteria and general confusion.

Since this is a blog focusing on sports, I'm straying away from the political side of things, but just for clarity, this situation has been woefully mishandled. It is a tough scenario, without question, but leadership is lacking at multiple levels.

I believe John Oliver said it best. "Don't be complacent, but don't be an idiot either." I tend to agree. I don't want to come off alarmist, but I don't want to be laissez-faire.

Wash your hands regularly and limit your time in crowds. Still go to the grocery store, run your necessary errands and live your life. But avoid touching your face and be more aware of cleaning up after yourself.

Also, don't hoard masks. People with compromised immune systems need those. Medical professionals need those.

One area where decision-making hasn't been laissez-faire is the sports world.

In just the last few days the NBA, MLS, NHL and the XFL have all suspended play. Also suspended are the Masters while NASCAR will be racing without fans attending.

One of the biggest decisions though came from the NCAA, cancelling both winter and spring championships, including both mens and womens basketball tournaments.

Your heart has to go out to those athletes who don't really have a chance at playing professional, and for the seniors, their careers are done.

Typically, during a world event such as this, sports would be the refuge to distract. Now, that has been taken away.

And I applaud the leagues for taking these measures.

For a regular, healthy person, this virus likely is not that serious. The issue is one, how easy it is to spread and two, and easily it can get to those with compromised immune systems.

"But why cancel events? Shouldn't those with compromised systems stay away?"

Fair point invisible devil's advocate. But I feel that argument misses the point.

Let's say that happens, and a healthy person does ge the virus. It doesn't show signs for 14 days. In those two weeks, that person goes to a grocery store, does self checkout, touches the keypad and goes on.

Everyone who follows and touches that keypad is now at risk.

That same person goes to a bank, touches and door knob.

It are the small, seemingly meaningless scenarios that help spread a virus. One person gives it to three, those three give it to three more, and you see how quickly things can get out of hand.

Or, just look at Rudy Gobert and how his lackadasical actions effected the Utah Jazz.

LINK: Rudy Gobert

So what to do if you are a sports fan? Well, go without.

Or watch ESPN Classic, or catch up on your Netflix/Amazon/Disney+/(insert streaming service here) shows. This is a binge-friendly time. Embrace it. Roll with the punches. Have a few drinks. Make it a stacation at your home.

And finally, in these times, follow rule 303:
"If you have the means at hand, you have the responsibility to act."