Hornets Increase Capacity After NC Governor Lifts Restrictions

The Charlotte Hornets are headed to the NBA's play-in tournament and more fans will get the opportunity to see them live should they get a home game.

As the team announced Saturday, seating for postseason games at the Spectrum Center will increase to 60%, or 12,000 total fans. This loosening of restrictions comes one day after North Carolina Gov. Ray Cooper lifted all social distancing requirements and limits on gatherings.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming more fans back at Spectrum Center for our potential play-in and playoff games,” said Hornets President & Vice Chairman Fred Whitfield. “We’ve seen the difference our fans have made since returning to Spectrum Center earlier this season, and we know that their passion and excitement will be a big advantage as we head into the postseason.

"Most importantly, it is great to see our community continue to make its way through this pandemic and this is another step forward for all of us. We thank Governor Cooper and his staff for their leadership during the pandemic and allowing us the opportunity to increase our capacity.”

The Hornets currently sit in eighth place in the Eastern Conference and have guaranteed themselves a spot in the play-in tourney. The NBA regular season concludes Sunday.

Written by
Sam Amico spent 15 years covering the NBA for Sports Illustrated, FOX Sports and NBA.com, along with a few other spots, and currently runs his own basketball website on the side, FortyEightMinutes.com.