WITH THE LIGHTS dimmed for the introduction of the starting lineups, Ball Arena directs everyone's attention to the big screen for an urgent message.
"ATTENTION, WARNING TO VISITORS."
Denver Nuggets public address announcer Kyle Speller proceeds to deliver a grim caution to the Los Angeles Lakers and their fans before the start of the Western Conference finals.
"All visitors to the Mile High City be warned," Speller says in an ominous voice. "High levels of exertion at this altitude may cause hypoxia with symptoms of fatigue, difficulty breathing, rapid heart rate, headaches and confusion.