The Pacers were supposed to tip-off against the New Orleans Pelicans at 8:10 pm ET Wednesday, but the roof of the Smoothie King Center had other ideas. By 9:44 pm, the NBA made the call to postpone the game.
Arena workers were able to contain the leak by quickly building a contraption. However, the damage apparently was already done to the hardwood. Extensive renovations were made to the building, which opened in 1999, in the fall of 2014.
The leak was isolated to one end of the floor, around the foul line at the basket in front of the Pacers’ bench. However, it’s obvious there were concerns for player safety — and understandably so.
While team and league officials evaluated the damage, the players were back in the locker room.
Head official Josh Tiven spent time surveying the affected area while having a conversation with someone on the phone. Then, twice he went over to the scorer’s table to put on the headset connected to the NBA Replay Center.
Ultimately, the game that never tipped off, was delayed for an hour and 14 minutes before the league went ahead and made the final decision.
Welp
— Myles Turner (@Original_Turner) February 8, 2018
Two years ago, the Pacers had two games delayed due to power (vs Phoenix) and lighting issues (at Miami).
It’s unlikely that this game will be played on Thursday in New Orleans. While the Smoothie King Center appears to be available, the Pelicans already have have back-to-back scheduled for Friday and Saturday night, in Philadelphia and Detroit, respectively.
Next up for the Pacers, they play the Eastern Conference-leading Celtics (39-16) Friday night in Boston.
Pacers game in New Orleans on hold due to leak in roof. [FOX Sports Indiana]
GM of Smoothie King Center Allan Freeman: "We're trying to create a catch basin…so we can play the basketball game." #Pacers #Pelicans pic.twitter.com/Ne4IEub4Ni
— Bally Sports Indiana (@BallySportsIN) February 8, 2018
I guess the good news is no one is holding an umbrella as they figure out what to do. pic.twitter.com/A8rmhfalJx
— David Benner (@PacersDMB) February 8, 2018
Crazy as it sounds we are on a rain delay! Leaking roof in New Orleans. pic.twitter.com/cV8Xnwsh4d
— Shawn Windle (@swindle72) February 8, 2018
We Have a Rain Delay, Here in New Orleans!! The Roof is Leaking!! Hope to Resume Soon, Thank you for Your Cooperation!! LOL pic.twitter.com/wBAmdaE3VR
— Josh Conder (@CountryWP33) February 8, 2018
Not all heroes wear capes @PierreTPelican https://t.co/rRIFHle3S2
— New Orleans Pelicans (@PelicansNBA) February 8, 2018