OKLAHOMA CITY -
Oklahoma City Thunder fans will no longer be able to watch the game outside of the Chesapeake Arena during playoff home games.
The news comes after eight people were shot near the arena following the Thunder's game 5 win against the Los Angeles Lakers. One victim is still in critical condition and seven others were treated for non-life threatening injuries.
5/23/2012 Related Story: Bricktown Businesses, Fans Sound Off On Team Decision To End Thunder Alley Viewing
The Thunder public relations department sent the news release out Wednesday afternoon. In it team officials say "Thunder Alley" pregame festivities will continue, beginning three hours before tipoff and ending when the game starts.
"Our concerns have to be with the safety of our fans, those are the facts," says Thunder spokesman Dan Mahoney.
Thunder Alley is an outdoor block party featuring music, games, food and drinks, face painting, merchandise sales and the Thunder Rewards Zone, a game-day opportunity to win or buy remaining game tickets.
Thunder vice president of Corporate Communications and Community Relations is quoted in the release, saying "It's a chance in a safe, family-friendly environment for our fans to embrace the Thunder experience and get ready for the game. For those with tickets, they can enter the arena when doors open. Other Thunder fans can enjoy the pregame entertainment and then go to their favorite viewing establishment to watch the game."
5/22/2012 Related Story: One Victim Critical, Seven Recovering Following Shooting In Bricktown After Thunder Game
Thunder players say they wish it wasn't the end of the watch parties, which attracted an estimated 6,000 fans Monday night.
"It's disappointing. I hope they don't cut it off," says Thunder All-Star guard Russell Westbrook.
"Its something amazing.....we need them," says Thunder Forward Serge Ibaka, who says he notices the crowd when it's shown on big monitor inside the arena.
The News Release did not state specifically the reason why the team decided to stop showing the game on the big screen outside the arena to Thunder Alley patrons.
Thunder Alley is an outdoor block party.
