The NBA has postponed the highly anticipated game between the Houston Rockets and Atlanta Hawks due to a severe winter storm impacting the Atlanta area.
In a statement, the league emphasized that the decision was made “to prioritize the safety of the players, fans, and staff given the hazardous icy conditions and extreme weather in Atlanta.”
A new date for the rescheduled matchup will be announced in the future. The Rockets had already arrived in Atlanta before the postponement was confirmed.
On Friday, the winter storm blanketed the Atlanta region with snow and ice, leading to concerns of refreezing conditions on Saturday night.
As the storm progressed, power outages surged in the Atlanta area, with over 110,000 customers losing electricity due to falling trees on power lines.
In a related incident, a Delta Air Lines jet preparing for departure to Minneapolis had to abort its takeoff on Friday, injuring four passengers. Delta spokesperson Morgan Durrant reported that the aircraft encountered an engine issue.
While the incident occurred during the snowstorm, which caused significant flight cancellations and delays at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, officials could not confirm whether the weather played a role in the engine problem.
The Boeing 757-300, carrying 201 passengers along with two pilots and five flight attendants, was evacuated using inflatable slides. One passenger was transported to a hospital, while three others received treatment for minor injuries at the airport.
