ESPN and ABC is facing the potential of having to produce Game 2 of the NBA Finals remotely due to the lingering threat of a tornado hitting Oklahoma City.
The Thunder are hosting the Indiana Pacers on Sunday night, but severe weather has left the crew scrambling for a quick solution.
According to The Athletic’s Andrew Marchand, the broadcaster is preparing for the possibility that its production trucks outside the arena may not be available due to the adverse weather conditions.
It is claimed that Disney-owned ESPN and ABC may have to control the pictures and production of the TV coverage from either Bristol or LA, with the local crew unable to work.
The on-screen talent – fronted by Mike Breen – would still present the coverage from courtside at Paycom Center, but there are safety fears for those working outside the arena.
Local news channels reported earlier on Sunday that the area is bracing itself for severe storms, that could bring tornadoes, large hail and 100mph wind gusts.
The sun was shining in the hours before the game, but severe weather is said to be en route
NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander warms up ahead of Game 2, which is live on ESPN and ABC
Thousands of local residents have been ordered to take shelter, but it is expected that Game 2 of the NBA Finals will still go ahead as planned.
The Indiana Pacers took the first game of the best-of-seven series on the road in stunning circumstances on Thursday, with Tyrese Haliburton sinking the game-winning bucket with just 0.3 seconds left on the clock.
The Thunder were heavy betting favorites heading into the NBA Finals, but the Pacers have once again proven they will not roll over easily.
