NBA, NBPA agree on health protocols, emphasis on social justice for return

The NBA and the National Basketball Players Association finalized the health protocols that will be instituted for the league's tentative July 30 return in Orlando, the two sides announced Friday.

In addition to "stringent health and safety protocols," the league will use the long-awaited continuation of the season to emphasize and implement tangible social justice reform.

"Leaders from the NBA and the NBPA have also discussed strategies to increase Black representation across the NBA and its teams, ensure greater inclusion of Black-owned and operated businesses across NBA business activities, and form an NBA foundation to expand educational and economic development opportunities across the Black community," the release states.

NBPA executive director Michele Roberts added: "Our platform in Orlando presents a unique opportunity to extend the ongoing fight against systemic racism and police brutality in this country. We will continue to work with our players and the league to develop specific plans in Orlando as well as long-term initiatives to bring about real change on these issues."

Specifics of the health protocols and the social justice initiatives were not revealed.

Additionally, the two sides confirmed they reached an agreement with the Walt Disney World Resort to host the remainder of the season in a "single-site campus" environment at its ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.