All fans entering Paycom Arena for an Oklahoma City Thunder game this season will be required to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test within 72 hours of the game.
The policy, announced by the team Tuesday, will initially be in effect between October 4th and November 26th, and will also apply to the team's preseason game at BOK Center in Tulsa on October 14th.
The Thunder say they will constantly review the policy based on Oklahoma's COVID case situation.
"While there are no perfect answers, our health experts tell us the vaccine has proven to be effective in slowing the spread of this virus, including the Delta variant," said Thunder Chairman Clay Bennett. "We feel the best option to help keep our community safe is to make sure those who attend our games have a reduced chance of contracting or spreading the virus.
Fans can upload vaccination proof or test results to the Thunder's mobile app or a special website set up by the team. Printed or digital proof will also be accepted at the gate.
The Thunder is the fourth NBA team to require proof of vaccination. Public health policies in New York and San Francisco will require vaccination proof for fans attending home games of the Golden State Warriors, New York Knicks and Brooklyn Nets.
Masks are strongly recommended for fans in Paycom Arena, and the franchise expects the NBA to impose additional guidelines for fans sitting courtside.
The Thunder did not allow fans to attend home games last season.
