Weather delays Deer District opening, Bucks fans undeterred
MILWAUKEE - The Milwaukee Bucks delayed the Deer District watch party opening until 6:30 p.m. for Game 4 of the NBA Finals on Wednesday, July 14.
The team will continue to monitor the weather reports throughout the evening and will announce changes if appropriate. The team said Tuesday that it would ask fans to clear the plaza and seek shelter if lightning is detected within 10 miles of the arena.
"We’ve been watching the timing and forecast just to get a sense of where that is going to be," said Dustin Godsey, Bucks chief marketing officer. "Safety of our fans is the most important thing."
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When the Deer District gates did open, the plaza filled quickly.
"We were coming either way we decided, and we’re going to stick it out," said Jen Carmela.
Fans begin entering the Deer District before Game 4 of the NBA Finals -- entry delayed due to weather.
Throughout the day, the Bucks kept a close eye on storms. Inside Fiserv Forum, a conference room became a command post.
"We’ve got TVs, dozens of screens on the wall. Some with radars, some just with cameras outside making sure we’re keeping an eye on things out here," Godsey said.
Deer District amid rain before Game 4 of the NBA Finals.
Team leaders said they were ready to cancel the watch party if needed, but know the crowd is essential.
"It’s super important to have people out here at this point. It’s become a big thing for the city of Milwaukee, for this fan base," said Godsey. "On a global basis, people are seeing this and really impressed with what Milwaukee is bringing during this finals run."
"The city of Milwaukee needs this. We have to make up from last year’s pandemic. This is a great time for the city of Milwaukee," said fan Michael Carter.
Storm clouds rolled in just before 4 p.m. Heavy rain and thunder sent Suns fans on the run, but Bucks fans were ready for when the skies cleared.
"We actually think it’d be more fun if it rained," said Brynn Lehocky.
Fans pack the Deer District for Game 4 of the NBA Finals.
As Game 4 fever soared, the severe weather threat did not dampen Bucks fans' spirits.
"Even if it’s going to rain, it’s not going to stop them from needing our support inside. That’s what we’re going to do: be here and support," said Randi Hickman.
Jason Knutson captured this moment in time with a selfie on game day – preparing to watch the Bucks inside the arena.
"The price of the ticket was a little bit shocking. But we talked and it’s something we just can’t pass up," Knutson said.
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The FOX6 Weather Experts say late afternoon into the overnight Wednesday, strong to severe storms will be possible across southeastern Wisconsin. These storms will be sustained thanks to strong upper-level winds and enough instability to cause multiple rounds of storms. READ MORE in the FOX6 Weather Forecast.
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