Reports: NBA memo warns of punishments if protocols are violated originally appeared on NBC Sports Washington
After hosting a successful bubble postseason tournament in Orlando this past summer, the NBA is moving back to traveling to and from games for the 2020-2021 season. In what promises to be a challenging 72-game season amid several coronavirus spikes around the country, the league sent out a memo warning potential punishments if protocols are violated.
Fines, suspensions, forfeitures and the loss of draft picks are all on the table should any coronavirus outbreaks lead to schedule changes, according to a 158-page Health and Safety memo obtained by ESPN. Additionally, any player who is forced to quarantine after violating protocols could lose compensation for games missed.
During an era where everyone has been forced to be adaptable to the ever-changing nature that this pandemic presents, the memo covers practically every possible measure to ensure the season is played safely. Once a vaccine is deemed safe and effective, the NBA and NBPA still have to discuss whether or not to require getting it. If someone opts not to take the vaccine, the memo says, they might have to be tested more often and wear masks.
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In the wake of the trouble the Baltimore Ravens have had with their recent coronavirus break, and the fact that staff members were found to not have followed proper NFL guidelines, the NBA is making sure their teams are put under a bit more scrutiny. The NBA will send surprise visits to team facilities to make sure proper protocols are being followed.
With the lack of the bubble to protect its players from the outside world, the NBA compromised with its players to not constrict them to only their hotel rooms on road trips. While they're prohibited from visiting bars, clubs, public gyms, pools, and areas with social gatherings that exceed 15 people, players and team personnel alike will be allowed to eat at league-approved restaurants and won't be tested for marijuana this season.
Household family members of players and staff will also be tested twice a week.
It's the latest showing from Adam Silver and company that if this season is going to work, they'll need the full cooperation and discipline from their players to make it happen.
