LOS ANGELES (AFP) ‒ With the NBA on hold, the league and players union are finalizing a plan to withhold 25% of each player’s salary starting on May 15, ESPN reported Friday.
The US sports broadcaster reported that formal ratification of the plan was underway.
The deal would provide a gradual reduction in player salaries should the “force majeure” provision in the collective bargaining agreement be enacted with the cancellation of regular season games.
Although no games have been played since March 11, players have continued to receive their full salaries and are to receive their full wages on May 1.
Under the plan, money withheld would be set aside and paid out to players if all of the remaining regular-season games are played.
If games must be cancelled, teams would keep a percentage of the money based on how many games are lost.
NBA, WNBA to
sell face coverings
Face coverings bearing NBA and WNBA team themes are being sold to benefit organizations focused on hunger relief.
Fanatics plans to sell the face coverings, which have been recommended by the CDC during the coronavirus pandemic, featuring the logos of all 30 NBA and 12 WNBA teams.
“As a global community, we can all play a role in reducing the impact of the coronavirus pandemic by following the CDC’s recommendation to cover our nose and mouth while in public,” said Kathy Behrens, NBA president for social responsibility and player programs. “Through this new product offering, NBA and WNBA fans can adhere to these guidelines while joining in the league’s efforts to aid those who have been directly affected by COVID-19.”
Proceeds will go to organizations in the United States and Canada. Face coverings are expected to be available Friday on team sites. (Reuters)
