Security members of Mexico City Arena blocks photographers after a transformer exploded at the Mexico City Arena in Mexico City December 4, 2013.
The San Antonio Spurs’ “home court” advantage against the Minnesota Timberwolves in Mexico City was spurned on Wednesday night after an unexpected fire sent smoke cascading throughout the freshly minted arena.
The game was officially postponed and will likely take place in Minnesota later this season, meaning the NBA’s triumphant return to Mexico after 16 years will have to wait.
According to a report by ESPN, the Mexico City Police Department said a generator fire was behind the black plumes that inundated the court and stands as players warmed up before the game.
Both teams reportedly boarded flights on Wednesday night to return to their respective cities, while the arena’s management said fans who had bought tickets to the game would be reimbursed.
[ESPN]