The NBA announced that it will provide thousands of COVID-19 tests around the country for its NBA Together campaign.
What We Know:
- In the league’s statement, they acknowledged how the pandemic is disproportionately hurting marginalized communities of color and those are the communities where testing is most scarce. The league is partnering with UnidosUS, the National Urban League, and several private labs to provide free testing programs.
- The NBA is also providing free, daily testing throughout Orlando. The league’s season will restart today in their bubble at Disney World. Florida is one of the worst-hit states when it comes to coronavirus. Testing appointments can be made at this link.
- This announcement comes after the league announced another round of coronavirus testing without a positive test. Several players have had the coronavirus like Russell Westbrook and Nikola Jokic, but no one has tested positive since entering the bubble. The NBA maintains risk in its bubble by allowing players to leave for excused absences and some players have broken protocols. However, the league has protected the integrity of the bubble with its rigorous testing and quarantine policies.
- The NBA and WNBA have been using their platform to spread information and take action on the health crisis. Both leagues have recorded more than 45 health PSAs and have partnered with a coalition of health officials to assist with the donations of plasma from COVID-19 survivors. The NBA is also donating tests to facilities in all 30 local team markets.
The long-awaited NBA restart is finally here. The Jazz-Pelicans and Lakers-Clippers games will air at 6:30 pm and 9 pm ET respectively.
