It takes a big deal to bump Oprah freaking Winfrey. But that’s what’s happened in Toronto.

The talk-show host, best-selling author, actress, self-help guru, and first African American entrepreneur worth more than $2 billion was scheduled to speak at Toronto’s Scotiabank Arena this Friday (June 14). But the Raptors have a shot at their first NBA championship and even “the Oprah effect” won’t stand in their way.

The Raptors are scheduled to play the Golden State Warriors in Game 6 of the finals in Oakland, California, this Thursday (13). If they lose, the series will return to Toronto for Game 7 on Sunday (June 16). And according to Live Nation, that doesn’t leave enough time between Game 7 and Oprah for staff to disassemble and remove a basketball court and then assemble and have the stage ready for Ms. Winfrey.

“Due to the ongoing NBA Finals schedule and continuing requirements for Scotiabank Arena by the NBA, we regret to announce that the ‘Your Path Made Clear’ show on Friday, June 14, 2019 has been cancelled,” reads a June 11 message that was posted to Live Nation’s Ontario social-media accounts. “All tickets will be automatically refunded at point of purchase.”

The Toronto cancellation has not affected four other events that Orpah has scheduled as part of a cross-Canada tour.

One of those dates is Vancouver. One June 24, Orpah will appear at Rogers Arena.

https://twitter.com/LiveNationON/status/1138477353892548608

The tour is in support of Winfrey’s latest book, The Path Made Clear: Discovering Your Life's Direction and Purpose.

“Everyone has a purpose,” reads a description of the book. “And, according to Oprah Winfrey, ‘Your real job in life is to figure out as soon as possible what that is, who you are meant to be, and begin to honor your calling in the best way possible.’

“Oprah shares what she sees as a guide for activating your deepest vision of yourself, offering the framework for creating not just a life of success, but one of significance.”

Tickets for Oprah’s Vancouver appearance went on sale May 3 and are still available via Live Nation.