PRESS RELEASE ON COVID-19 BY THE CHAIRMAN OF THE LEAGUE
Heartfelt greetings from the Basketball National League
The coronavirus pandemic is having a significant impact around the world, and our first thought is one of sympathy and support to all victims and respective families affected by this dreadful and silent killer.
Our top priority at the Basketball National League is the safety and health of all our players, staff, fans, suppliers, sponsors, media associates, and clubs. YOU and YOUR LIFE are the single most important factor for us.
We are hereby forced to announce the postponement of our league activities until September (situation permitting at that stage), but our only goal is to contribute to the health and safety of each and every valuable life by staying at home. Let´s pull together by being apart at home, following all the guidelines as established by the relevant authorities. Together, let´s slam-dunk this virus!
During the difficult times ahead, the BNL will be publishing certain guidelines and advice from our management, coaches, and players in support of the “stay at home” and “save lives” campaigns. In this regard, we again urge everyone to stay home unless it is absolutely necessary to leave your homes for the shortest possible time, in which case please practice social distancing, wear a mask and gloves if possible, take every possible precaution to ensure that you don´t become another unfortunate statistic of this virus. At all times, please wash your hands regularly and thoroughly with soap and water for at least twenty seconds.
Finally, we are grateful for the tremendous efforts of all health care workers around the world and join you in support of our very own South African health worker community. We commend and applaud you! Thank you!
September will come around soon enough, and BNL will be back stronger than ever. We want you to be a part of the relaunch, so please play your part by staying at home and keeping yourself safe and healthy.
Please play your part. Stay at home. Be safe. Save lives.
God bless you, your family, and your loved ones.
ISSUED BY: Dr. Albert Mokoena (Chairman of the league)
DATE: 21 April 2020
