Though it remains to be seen whether the 2019-20 NBA season may yet resume after going on hiatus on March 11, the Utah Jazz have taken steps to give season-ticket holders some options.
On Wednesday, the Jazz sent an email to season-ticket holders, letting them know that, with 10 games slated for Vivint Smart Home Arena yet to be played, they have the option of the price of their outstanding tickets being refunded or converted to a credit for future games.
“With the postponement of games since March, our intent has been to honor your season tickets when the games resumed,” the email said. “Due to the continued uncertainties, the NBA has allowed us to offer our season ticket members the opportunity for refunds and credits for the postponed games. For the Utah Jazz, this includes the final 10 home games of the regular season at Vivint Smart Home Arena.”
The offer of refunds comes even amid continuing financial struggles for parent company Larry H. Miller Sports & Entertainment. On Friday, LHMSE announced furloughs for about 40% of its collective Utah Jazz, Salt Lake Bees, and Megaplex Theaters workforce — equating to about 200 workers temporarily losing their jobs. This comes on the heels of some 1,000 employees across all LHM businesses, including car dealerships, being laid off in early April.
The NBA season went on hiatus back on March 11 due to Jazz center Rudy Gobert’s positive COVID-19 test. Major League Baseball and its minor league affiliates have yet to begin play for their 2020 seasons.
Though the Jazz had 18 total remaining games, including 10 at home, the organization issued a public statement less than two days later offering to honor tickets for rescheduled games, while also offering refunds or future credits for single-game tickets purchased by individuals or rental groups.
At that time, mini-plan, half-season, and full-season ticket packages were promised to be honored for rescheduled dates, though refunds or future credits were only in the offing should the remaining games be officially canceled.
Now, though, the Jazz have pivoted from that latter policy.
The email said that season-ticket holders could expect to be contacted directly by a representative, who would explain the options available to them.
“The Utah Jazz are grateful for your incredible support during this unique time. We ask for your patience as we begin the comprehensive process of assisting each season ticket member,” the email said. “We look forward to speaking with you and enjoying Jazz basketball again soon.”
How soon remains very much up in the air.
In speaking with local media on Tuesday, Dennis Lindsey, the Jazz’s Vice President of Basketball Operations, expressed that while myriad options for a potential return to action have been discussed in league-wide conference calls, there is no firm timetable in play yet.
“Our return will be based upon data, not dates,” Lindsey said.
