APRIL 23, 2020 METSBASKETBALL
Guaynabo, Puerto Rico – Their comeback season was put on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but not even a lockdown can stop the Guaynabo Mets from spreading team spirit.
The Mets recently donated a large supply of much-needed personal protective equipment (PPE) to Guaynabo hospitals as Puerto Rico braces for its coronavirus peak. Puerto Rican officials have repeatedly expressed concern over the island’s lack of equipment for helping slow the virus’ spread. The PPE was secured through a fundraiser led by the Mets, their assistant General Manager Jake Grossman, and his sister Brooke.
“Now more than ever, we are committed to supporting Mets nation,” said Jake Grossman. “This is bigger than basketball. It’s about coming together as a community and taking care of each other.”
Baloncesto Superior Nacional (BSN) league play was paused on March 12 following a government order to cancel large scale gatherings amid the coronavirus outbreak. The league is working on a plan to safely resume play once restrictions are eased. A tentative BSN restart date of August 15 was reported by El Vocero, but the league stresses that due to lingering uncertainty, no concrete decisions have been made. On April 11, Puerto Rico’s governor announced that the Commonwealth will remain on lockdown until May 3.
Healthcare workers dealing with the coronavirus pandemic are at an especially high risk of contracting the disease. CDC recommends the use of N95 masks, gowns, gloves, and eye protection when treating suspected COVID-19 patients. But an inspector general of the Department of Health and Human Services report from 46 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico found “widespread” shortages of medical worker PPE that has “put staff and patients at risk.”
Supply chain disruptions for PPE due to coronavirus is forcing hospitals to get creative. In addition to 3D printing PPE and decontaminating equipment to extend its lifespan, there has been a philanthropic outpouring from private organizations. The Mets, which were able to secure PPE from medical supply companies in New York, are happy to do their part.
“I’m hopeful that Mets basketball will return to Guaynabo this season,” said Grossman. “In the meantime, the team is committed to supporting the nurses, doctors, and other healthcare workers putting themselves at risk to fight COVID-19. That’s who we’re cheering for right now.”To stay up to date on all official Mets news, visit Metsbasketball.com or follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.