NBA Rumors: LeBron Wants Fans In The Stands, May Not Play In Closed-Door Games

LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers loves to play for the fans but a recent NBA memo could force teams to play under an uncanny situation. With the novel coronavirus getting out of hand, the possibility of holding games in closed doors has been suggested.

The Athletic reported that the NBA has sent a memorandum to NBA teams should start preparing for the possibility of playing games without fans. The move is understandable and for the well-being of everyone. But of course, playing games with no one watching hardly makes sense for stars like James. While most may have to console themselves watching via television, it remains that it is still different watching games in the flesh.

James was recently asked on his take on the possibility and the three-time NBA champion appears to be unhappy. In a tweet by Mark Medina of USA Today, the 35-year-old Lakers star said: "I ain't playing if there are no fans."

James says there is no point in playing if NBA fans are not present. It appears that James could be joking but some are wondering what if he holds true to his word? Better yet, what if other NBA stars do the same and opt not to play for fear of the coronavirus, TMZ Sports reported.

Another possibility is the NBA placing the season on pause. That could be detrimental, especially for teams on winning streaks. Conversely, that could be good news to teams plagued with injuries. Several teams like the Brooklyn Nets Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers could benefit from added time off. The NBA playoffs are just around the corner and canceling some games would heavily affect the 2019-20 season schedule.

The NBA is obviously looking out for the health of both players and fans moving forward. It is an unpopular decision but several international competitions have been called off one by one. In all, the NBA is not the only sports league dealing with the health epidemic. It will be interesting what other NBA stars would say if they were asked the same question thrown at the King.