No hugs, no high fives part of Fiba’s ‘Return to Basketball’ guidelines
MANILA, Philippines —Fiba, the international governing body for basketball, has published guidelines for national federations for the resumption of basketball activities and competitions in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.
The “Return to Basketball” guidelines were produced in a joint effort by the Fiba COVID-19 Medical Advisory Group and the World Health Organization (WHO).
Major sporting events, including Fiba competitions and the NBA, as well as the PBA season in the country, have been suspended since mid-March due to the deadly virus.
FIBA has published recommendations on returning to basketball, with the Return to Basketball – Restart Guidelines for National Federations, in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. https://t.co/gaBwh5lHBA
— FIBA media (@FIBA_media) May 26, 2020
“This set of guidelines will be very beneficial for the basketball community in their return to our game,” Andreas Zagklis, FIBA secretary general, said in a statement Tuesday.
“We all miss our sport being played and as the situation related to the COVID-19 pandemic evolves, Fiba remains committed to providing guidance for a safe environment for the ‘Return to Basketball.'”
In the restart plan, Fiba recommends that each team should “consider regular COVID-19 testing” and “medical monitoring for illness and fever.” Training in small groups involving only the “necessary individuals” are also advisable.
Players and coaches are also discouraged from making “unnecessary physical contact such as hugs, handshakes, high fives, or fan engagement.”
Unnecessary physical contact with the opposing team, referees or match officials is likewise not advised.
Social distancing must also be observed on the bench.
Fiba also encourages players to disinfect their hands especially during substitutions and breaks.
The same also applies during 3×3 events with Fiba stressing on the importance of observing social distancing and minimizing close contact.
“I have witnessed that Fiba has been working tirelessly to ensure the health and safety of national federations, players, officials and other partners,” said Dr. Peter Harcourt, FIBA Medical Commission chairman.
“Rest assured that our Medical Commission will keep working and collaborating closely with WHO and will endeavor to assist Fiba to safeguard the basketball community from the current pandemic crisis based on the scientific knowledge.”
The complete guidelines are available below:
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