COVID-19 isn’t putting a halt to everything. The WNBA Draft 2020 presented by State Farm will go on as scheduled on April 17.
The draft will be a virtual one without players, guests, and media. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert will announce the draft picks live on ESPN2 beginning at 8 p.m. ET. Top prospects will take part in the draft remotely.
“The WNBA draft is a time to celebrate the exceptional athletes whose hard work and dreams are realized with their selections in the draft,” said WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. “Safeguarding the health and well-being of our prospects, players, employees, and everyone connected to our game as well as the general public is paramount. With that in mind, we will work diligently with our broadcast partner, ESPN, to create a memorable but virtual event that appropriately honors these accomplished athletes.”
During the broadcast, the WNBA will honor Gianna Bryant, Alyssa Altobelli, and Payton Chester, who passed away in a helicopter accident on Jan 26. There will also be a tribute to the late Kobe Bryant who championed the league. The celebrations of The Black Mamba will carry into the season as well.
The league was previously planning to start the season with training camp on April 26 and the first tip-off on May 15, any updates for changes will come from the WNBA at a further time.