**Weathering the Storm: Florida’s Sports Scene Braces for Impact**
As Hurricane Milton churns its way towards the Gulf coast of Florida, the state’s sports community is holding its collective breath. With forecasters predicting a late Wednesday or early Thursday landfall, teams and event organizers are scrambling to adjust their schedules and ensure the safety of athletes, staff, and fans.
The NBA was the first to take action, cancelling Friday’s preseason matchup between the Orlando Magic and New Orleans Pelicans. The game will not be rescheduled, a decision made in light of the Magic’s uncertain travel plans. Originally slated to return to central Florida on Thursday after a game in San Antonio, the team’s itinerary is now in flux.
This isn’t the first time Hurricane Milton has disrupted the NBA preseason. A game between the Miami Heat and Atlanta Hawks, scheduled for Thursday, was postponed until October 16. Meanwhile, the NHL preseason game between the Tampa Bay Lightning and Nashville Predators, initially set for last month, was rescheduled for Friday but ultimately called off due to the storm.
As the storm looms, concern is etched on the faces of athletes and fans alike. Former Tampa Bay star Steven Stamkos, now with Nashville, took to social media to express his support for those in the Tampa area. “Stay safe Florida!” he urged, his words a testament to the sense of community that defines the sports world.
While some events have fallen victim to the storm, others remain tentatively on track. The “Gold Over America Tour,” featuring Olympic gymnast Simone Biles and other medalists, is still scheduled to arrive in Sunrise on Friday and Orlando on Saturday. The tour’s acronym, GOAT, is a nod to Biles’ status as the greatest of all time in her sport.
In the world of horse racing, Gulfstream Park in Hallandale Beach plans to resume live racing on Friday, while Saturday’s college football game between Cincinnati and UCF in Orlando is currently still a go. The Memphis-South Florida game in Tampa, rescheduled earlier this week, will take place on Saturday as planned.
As Hurricane Milton bears down on Florida, the state’s sports community remains vigilant, prepared to adapt to any changes the storm may bring. One thing is certain: the show will go on, even if it means adjusting the script.
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