Metal detectors for NBA playoff games?

[Lucky17]

http://sports.espn.go.com/chicago/nba/news/story?id=6465985

CHICAGO -- In the aftermath of the death of Osama bin Laden, the Chicago Bulls will use metal detectors to screen all patrons entering the United Center before Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinal against the Atlanta Hawks on Monday.

The NBA issued the mandate for the conference semifinals and all subsequent playoff games. This will be the first time the Bulls have used metal detectors, which are hand-held.

Chicago's other sporting event on Monday night will also have enhanced security. White Sox security staff will be on alert when the team's series concludes with the Baltimore Orioles.

Can someone provide me with some context here? I don't understand the connection between OBL and Chicago arena security.

Or is this just really shoddy journalism?

[Donoghus]

My guess is that this a security precaution in light of Bin Laden's death and the heightened threat of retalliation from terrorists.

[wdleehi]

Large gathering with alot of media coverage in a small location.

[Lucky17]

My guess is that this a security precaution in light of Bin Laden's death and the heightened threat of retalliation from terrorists.

Thanks, Dons. Might seem obvious now, but it didn't when I read the item.

[Chris]

They have metal detectors at C's games pretty regularly...although they are used very little.  There is always one overanxious security guard using it on everyone in line, and then everyone else pretty much just hold them.  Although I remember they did amp it up in the finals.

[jimmehx]

I'm surprised that this is the first example of 'heightened security' that I have heard about following OBL's death...

Probably an OK idea though.