Kings-Hawks was delayed over police protests outside the arena

Last night’s game between the Kings and the Hawks was delayed because of protests outside the arena over the shooting of an unarmed black man in Sacramento earlier this week.

Last weekend, Stephon Clark was shot, 20 times, and killed in his own backyard by Sacramento police officers. It was revealed later that he was unarmed and offices reportedly mistook his cell phone for a weapon. Sparked by reports that officers had turned off the audio on their body cameras during the shooting, a protest was fomented and ended up disrupting the beginning of Thursday evening’s game between the Kings and the Hawks.

Protestors linked arms in front of the arena entrances, preventing some fans from entering the arena.

The arena was eventually locked down. Team officials eventually decided to start the game late, despite many ticket-holders being turned away by the protesters and the arena lockdown set up by security.

The Kings made a statement after the game began addressing the situation and preparing to look for ways to make it right for the fans who were turned away.

"Tonight’s game began with a delay. Due to law enforcement being unable to ensure ticketed fans could safely enter the arena, the arena remains closed and we ask fans outside to travel home. We will issue further information soon regarding a refund."

Kings owner Vivek Ranadive also spoke to the small crowd after the game, with players from both teams still on the court.

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The NBA hasn’t had to confront protests on and off the court in the same way the NFL has. Kudos to the Kings for protecting the safety of their fans while also recognizing the rights of the protestors as well as acknowledging the specific issues that sparked the protest in the first place.