Report: NBA Working Toward Resumption Of 2019-20 Season In Late July Or Early August

TOPLINE

According to a report via The Athletic on Wednesday afternoon, the NBA is “working on multi-phase medical/safety protocols toward restart of play,” which would lead to training camps beginning in July and a resumption of the 2019-20 season in late July or early August.

KEY FACTS

Big Number: 

$1.2 Billion: A high-ranking team executive told the Washington Post in March that the total economic damage inflicted on the NBA could reach $40 million per team, or more than $1.2 billion, if the playoffs are lost.

Critical quote: 

“Our priority continues to be the health and safety of all involved, and we are working with public health experts and government officials on a comprehensive set of guidelines to ensure that appropriate medical protocols and protections are in place,” NBA spokesman Mike Bass said in a statement last week. 

Key Background:

Based on earlier reporting, it seems NBA owners, players and the league office are comfortable with the league ramping up preparations for a return to action later this summer, and it seems safe to assume that Orlando’s Walt Disney World Resort will be the sole host location when games resume. However, there doesn’t seem to be much consensus regarding which teams will be invited to Orlando, and whether regular-season games will be played, or only postseason contests. Per ESPN’s Wojnarowski, league officials are considering a variety of options that include regular-season games, pool play brackets, and a play-in tournament featuring teams that were in postseason contention in March, such as the Pelicans, Trail Blazers, Spurs and Kings. 

Further Reading:

Disney World Reportedly’ Clear Frontrunner’ To Host NBA Games If 2019-20 Season Resumes (Forbes) 

Sources: NBA, NBPA discuss plan to allow for limited family members to join players (ESPN) 

Coronavirus could cost NBA $1 billion, bring about record salary cap drop (Washington Post)