At long last, the Los Angeles Lakers will welcome 2,000 fans back to Staples Center on Thursday, just in time for a matchup with their long-time rivals, the Boston Celtics.
While the Lakers players and coaches are amped to have fans back in the building, the arena's health and safety protocols quickly came under scrutiny. In particular, one restriction outlawing handbags and purses received immediate pushback on Twitter.
“Bags and purses of any size are not permitted, including backpacks, clutches, totes, clear bags, and camera bags. Only bring necessary items that fit in your pocket. Wallets without chains/straps are allowed,” the rule states.
A slew of folks called out the Lakers and Staples Center's safety measure for its sexism, as women's clothing is often pocket-less.
Most women's clothes don't have functional pockets. https://t.co/p0PEtZG02t
— Shay Stewart Bouley (@blackgirlinmain) April 14, 2021
Even ESPN personality Katie Nolan couldn't help but react with some sarcasm.
what a creative way to announce that the tampon dispensers in your bathrooms will now be fully stocked and complimentary! https://t.co/gaZ42QVeFl
— Katie Nolan (@katienolan) April 14, 2021
Not even a small, clear bags? These rules were not written with all consumers in mind, specifically women. Even TSA provides small clear ziplocks. Should always have the option to put “certain items” in small bags. And no, I’m not talking about makeup. Very disappointing. https://t.co/MQoNnriaOd
— Pam Chvotkin, Storyteller (@reddusfoximus) April 14, 2021
as a woman with no pockets and also life-threatening allergies, i can't wait to show up to arenas with a fistful of tampons and epipens. 🤘🏻 https://t.co/p1VbhXWnWx
— OLIVIA witherite⁷ (@Oliviawitherite) April 14, 2021
How can we make sports less accessible: https://t.co/y9kid3dDkp
— Shayna (@hayyyshayyy) April 14, 2021
Staples Center will also be requiring a photo ID for patrons, along with proof of either full vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of entering the premises. All tickets to the Lakers game will be mobile.
Guests over the age of 2 will be required to wear some kind of face covering over the nose and mouth while inside the building. Guests will also be asked to maintain six feet of social distance.
You can find more info on ticketing and safety guidelines here.
It remains to be seen if the Lakers organization will modify the bag restriction. Of course, the franchise is run by Jeanie Buss, one of the few female controlling owners in the NBA.
Boston and L.A. are set to tip-off at 7 p.m. PT on TNT on Thursday.
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