WNBA to tip off season in late July

The WNBA will be back in late July.

On Monday the league announced elements to return to the court in late July. The WNBA is finalizing a partnership that would make IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida the official home of the 2020 season with a 22-game schedule featuring all 22 teams followed by a traditional playoff format.

IMG Academy would be the host for training camp, games and housing. The top priority continues to be the health and safety of players and staff, and the league is working with medical specialists, public health experts, and government officials on a comprehensive set of guidelines to ensure that appropriate medical protocols and protections are in place.

"We are excited to learn more details on the footprint of the 2020 WNBA season and look forward to getting started," Minnesota Lynx Head Coach & General Manager Cheryl Reeve released via a statement. "Though we will soon be starting the WNBA season, our team is committed to continuing the conversation around the racial injustice issues that permeate our society. It is important that we use our voices to amplify the inequities that black and brown people face every day and we will work tirelessly to address these issues, particularly, issues pertaining to police brutality, especially in Minneapolis.”

Under the current plan, teams will report to IMG Academy in early July and regular-season action will tip off in late July after a team training camp period. The WNBA 2020 season will be played without fans in attendance due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Regular season matchups and times for WNBA season will be announced at a later date.