The NBA’s elaborate safety protocol for play at ESPN Wide World of Sports in Orlando is taking shape, with players and the league reportedly negotiating more details this week.
The coronavirus has had an impact on the league beyond forcing officials to shut down play on March 11 after a player tested positive for COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus. Numerous other players were infected, including Nets superstar Kevin Durant, while Jacqueline Cruz-Towns, the mother of Timberwolves All-Star center Karl Anthony-Towns, died due to COVID-19 complications.
The NBA and the National Basketball Players Association agreed on the league’s proposal for 22 teams to resume play in Orlando July 31, the safety procedures played a key role in gaining player support.