By Dorothy J. Gentry
Sports Editor
Planning on going to a Dallas Mavericks game this season?
Make sure you’ve vaxxed up and have a negative test ready for show; it’s the only way you’re getting into the American Airlines Center.
On Thursday the Mavs unveiled its operational health and safety protocols for the upcoming season on its website and in an email to its season ticket holders stating, “we reserve the right to readdress the policies in place based on the current local health landscape.”
Those protocols include proof of a negative COVID-19 Rapid Test from a licensed facility within 48 hours of attending an event and proof the last dose of the vaccine was received at least 14 days prior to the event by presenting a CDC vaccination card.
“We aren’t looking to send a message,” Mavs owner Mark Cuban told Texas Metro News in an email. “We just want to use the best information available to us at this point to help us put in procedures that keep our fans as safe as we reasonably can.
“Nothing is infallible when it comes to covid, but we try as best we can.”
The Mavericks begin their 2021 season with a pair of pre-season home games at the American Airlines Center against the Utah Jazz and L.A. Clippers on Wednesday Oct. 6 and Friday, Oct. 8 at 7:30 p.m.
Fans will have to submit their negative COVID-19 test within 48 hours of the game or vaccination card through MavsCheckin.com starting October 1st.
A face mask will also be required for everyone over the age of 2, in accordance with the Dallas County mask order. A COVID-19 vaccine or negative test will not be required for those under the age of 12.
Additionally, fans will not be able to use cash in the ACC; at concession stands, bars, and merchandise stands.
Dallas opens the 2021 regular season on the road on Oct. 21 against the Atlanta Hawks. Their first two home games will come against in-state rivals Houston and San Antonio on Oct. 26 and 28, respectively, at 7:30 p.m.
The full protocols to attend Dallas Mavs games this season are below:
Health Screening
Precautionary measures are being taken to ensure the health and safety of you, fellow fans, staff, and players. You and your guests of ALL AGES must comply to (1) of following entry requirements, unless under the age of 12 and NOT seated within 15 feet of the court.
- Proof of negative COVID-19 RAPID TEST from a licensed facility within 48 hours of attending event. You can find your nearest testing facility by going to the Dallas County website here.
- Proof last dose of COVID-19 VACCINE was received at least 14 days prior to event by presenting CDC vaccination card.
Beginning October 1, 2021, you will be able to easily upload the desired documents and check-in by following the steps on MavsCheckin.com for seamless entry into the arena. If you do not have access to a smart phone, all attendees must bring a printed or digital copy of negative test results or physical COVID-19 vaccination card.
AAC staff will be at each door checking proof of negative tests and/or vaccination and denying entry to those non-compliant with these requirements.
Mask Policy
In accordance with the Dallas County mask order, masks (covering your nose and mouth) are required and enforced for all fans ages 2 and up, unless actively eating or drinking in assigned seat, regardless of COVID-19 vaccination status.
Fan Safety Guidelines
- Cashless transactions at all points of sale, including concession stands, bars, and merchandise stands.
- Bags and purses will not be permitted, with the exception of wallet size clutches no larger than 4.5″ x 6.5″. All bags are subject to x-ray inspection.
Mobile Tickets & Parking Passes
Dallas Mavericks tickets and pre-purchased parking passes will again be fully mobile this season. You can access your tickets and passes through the Dallas Mavs app or your Ticketmaster account.
