Fans will be locked out of the remainder of the NBL grand final series between the Perth Wildcats and Sydney Kings as a result of the coronavirus crisis.

Sports throughout the world have been cancelling and postponing events in recent days while others have closed venues to fans.

The NBL consulted Perth and Sydney officials today along with various state and federal authorities and deemed it was best to avoid playing in front of large crowds. That means tonight’s game at RAC Arena has been closed to the public.

They have also announced that the series will be suspended if any player, coach or official tests positive to coronavirus.

"After consultation with local, state and federal authorities as well as our clubs, we have made a decision that the remainder of the NBL Grand Final Series between the Sydney Kings and Perth Wildcats will be closed to the general public,” NBL Owner and Executive Chairman Larry Kestelman said.

"The health and well-being of our players, staff, officials and fans is paramount. As a family sport we felt this was the only decision to make

"We commend the Kings, Wildcats and their ownership groups for supporting this move despite being a difficult commercial decision for all concerned.

Camera Icon Damian Martin of the Wildcats celebrates with his family after winning game three of the NBL Semi Final Series. Credit: Will Russell / Getty Images

“But they were just as resolute as us in regard to prioritising the welfare of players, staff and everyone else concerned ahead of commercial considerations.

"We will continue to monitor the situation and follow all protocols as outlined by the relevant authorities.

“In the event of a player, staff member or official testing positive to Coronavirus we will immediately suspend the series.

"I’m proud of our sport and the stance we have taken during this difficult time.

“We thank our teams, players, staff, officials and fans for their understanding and patience during what is a very challenging time for everybody and we wish both teams the best of the luck for the remainder of the series."

The Wildcats have responded to the crowd ban, expressing their disappointment while stating they respect the league’s decision.

Camera Icon General views of play during game three of the NBL Semi Final Series between the Perth Wildcats and the Cairns Taipans at RAC Arena. Credit: Paul Kane / Getty Images

“Our fans have helped us get to this stage of the season. It’s a terrible shame that, in our biggest game of the year, they can’t be there to support us,” said Perth Wildcats CEO Troy Georgiu.

“However, the health and safety of our members, fans and the wider West Australian community, as well as our players, coaches and staff, will always be our priority.

“Nobody at our organisation is displaying flu-like symptoms, and the team remains focused on taking a 2-0 series-lead, even without the presence of our amazing Red Army.”

It comes as Chief Medical Officer Brendan Murphy advised the Prime Minister, state premiers and senior ministers the government must implement a ban on mass gatherings of more than 500 people, to contain the spread of COVID-19.

Morrison confirmed the ban on mass gatherings earlier today.

"The goal here is very straight forward - it is simply to slow the rate of transmission of the coronavirus throughout Australia,” Morrison said.

"Based on the advice we've received today, it has been recommended to us that we move to a position by Monday where we will be advising against non-essential organised gatherings of people of more than 500 from Monday."