On a usual school night watching basketball, the entire sports world was turned upside down. After NBA all star Rudy Gobert was diagnosed with the coronavirus, the league instantly countered with precautionary measures. The league’s commissioner, Adam Silver, stopped all games for the night and shortly after, suspended the season. Soon after, other sports leagues followed these actions as players were quarantined and events were cancelled. It was at this moment for me, I realized just how serious this virus was becoming and what felt like a dream, became a clear reality.

     As sports began to vanish before our eyes, sports journalism suffered as well. For weeks, all ESPN could discuss was the virus when usually, they were focused on ongoing, intriguing topics in the sports world. Instead of players and celebrity guests to come talk sports, doctors such as Dr. Sanjay Gupta was on instead to discuss the virus.  Four hours, then days and weeks, the only ongoing topic was when the virus could end and when commissioners expected to see a return of sports. 

   The sports world was finally given a breath of fresh air when NFL free agency began. Although coaches and general managers were unable to formally meet with players, the free agency period continued. Tom Brady announced his departure from his historic career with the Patriots but not in retirement. Instead, Brady chose to continue his career in Tampa Bay to play for the Buccaneers. This move ignited fans around the country in excitement as finally there was something to talk about. In addition, superstar receiver Deandre Hopkins was traded to the Arizona Cardinals. A series of captivating moves continued and gave analysts something to talk about.

   Weeks later, ESPN began releasing a documentary titled, “The Last Dance”, featuring the final season of the 1997-98 Chicago Bulls in their final championship run as well as the years leading up to it. Not only did fans of basketball begin to tune in Sunday nights, but players as well expressed their fascination in the documentary. The basketball world seems to unite in enjoying it together, despite being quarantined in their own homes.

   On April 24, the annual NFL Draft took place, although differently than usual. Rather than players walking the stage and shaking hands with the commissioner, they stayed home and celebrated with their close family members. There was a variety of coverage leading up to the draft, as sports analysts once again had something to talk about and fans had a program to entertain themselves with. 

    Despite the sports drought, journalists have done their very best to continue to report whatever sports information is available and contribute to allowing people to have a part of their lives kept normal. At times, some days are slower than others and technological issues arise.  Despite the transparent conflicts that occur, they have continued to make do with what they have.

    The virus has affected the simplest things that we now realize we may take for granted. In terms of watching sports every night, many of us long for the day that we can sit happily with our friends or family and enjoy Lebron James racing down the court for a dunk. Until then, the only thing we can do is be patient and play our part.