Fans No Longer Required To Wear Masks At Dallas Mavericks Home Games
DALLAS (CBSDFW.COM) - The Dallas Mavericks announced Thursday, March 3, fans are no longer required to wear face masks at home games at the American Airlines Center.
The change in policy is effective immediately with Thursday night's game against Golden State.
COVID-19 case counts have been dropping steadily in Dallas County in recent weeks.
Dr. Jay Herd, Chief Medical Officer Baylor Scott & White All Saints Fort Worth reacted to the news saying, "It's a little worrisome but the CDC has said the transmission has gone down so they're following guidelines from the CDC so it's tough to blame them but there will still be cases because they're making those changes."
He said even with infections down, it's good to use caution.
"People are still getting sick, people are still coming to the hospital, even though it's less people are still intubated. People are still dying daily from this, so it's not gone completely away."
Dr. Herd said those who are vaccinated and boosted or recently had COVID-19 are likely more protected out in public, but offers some advice as more places lift mask mandates.
"We should wear masks if you're in a crowded area especially indoors that you don't know the vaccination status of the people around you," he said.
The mandated COVID-19 protocol to submit proof of vaccination or negative test within 48 hours of entry still applies for fans seated within 15 feet of the court.
Those with a compromised immune system, or similar condition, will have alternative seating options with fully vaccinated and/or negative tested fans to safely enjoy Mavericks games, as requested, the team said.
For more information on these tickets, current season ticket members can call their account executive for details and availability.
Non-season ticket members can call 214-747-MAVS to check availability and to purchase tickets on a single-game basis (average $100), based on capacity.
While immunocompromised seats are designated for all games, seating is subject to availability at time of purchase.
Social distancing is maintained between separate individuals/families.
The vaccine clinic at the Jack Daniels Old No. 7 Club, beginning two hours prior to tipoff until halftime, is still available for fans seeking first, second or booster shots.
No appointment is required, and walk-ups are welcome, even for those not attending the games.
The Mavericks said they will continue to monitor local COVID-19 trends and make adjustments to the policies, as warranted, with guidance from the CDC, NBA and local officials.
Click here for up-to-date Mavs gameday protocols.
