The NBA announced Monday that it plans to modify guidelines that would allow use of team practice and training facilities as early as May 8.
As some states and local governments around the United States begin to move away from stay-at-home orders for non-essential businesses during the coronavirus pandemic, the NBA is following suit.
As early as May 8, practice facilities in cities that are not bound by government restrictions will be available on a voluntary basis for players.
The league said that date is subject to change depending on the progression of the coronavirus.
The NBA would allow up to four players in one facility at a home. Head and assistant coaches would not be allowed, and group activity including full practice and scrimmages will remain prohibited.
The Athletic’s Shams Charania tweeted that one team staffer would be allowed during the workouts.
Additionally, the press release stated, players will still not be allowed to use non-team facilities, specifically public health clubs, fitness centers and gyms.
“The purpose of these changes is to allow for safe and controlled environments for players to train in states that allow them to do so, and to create a process for identifying safe training options for players located in other states,” the press release said.
For players who live in areas with governments that have not loosened restrictions, “the league will work with the team to identify alternatives.”
ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski tweeted that teams aren’t concerned about competitive balance that could arise if some states are allowed to train at facilities and others aren’t.
Players and staff will not be “regularly” tested for the coronavirus, Charania tweeted.
Charania also tweeted safety guidelines. Players will be required to wear masks unless participating in a physical activity and staffers will have to wear gloves.
They will also be told to physically distance themselves by at least 12 feet.
Teams were told to assign a senior executive to a position of facility hygiene officer, Charania tweeted.
