FIBA shares guidelines for restarting basketball

FIBA has released guidelines for returning to basketball amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

Drafted by the FIBA Medical Commission, the document outlines suggested actions for safely restarting competitions and other basketball activities.

It clarified, however, that it is "not intended to replace the guidance and restrictions" imposed by public health authorities.

"This list of actions is not exhaustive nor necessarily mandatory but can serve as a checklist to ensure the best chance of a successful start-up," the document said.

Recommendations include maintaining social distancing for players on the bench and assessing the number of spectators in playing venues.

"Unnecessary physical contact such as hugs, handshakes, high fives or fan engagement" are also discouraged once games are resumed. The rule also applies when interacting with opposing teams, referees, or match officials.

Regular use of hand sanitizers during substitutions and timeouts as well as after training is also encouraged.

In terms of COVID-19 testing, FIBA recommends a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test for professional leagues. Regular health monitoring and symptoms and temperature checks in stadiums are also suggested.

"Above all, the planning group should be aware that at any stage, the restart-up may be required to stop, due to emerging COVID-19 infection issues in the sport, venue or wider community," FIBA said.

For the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), Commissioner Willie Marcial said his office has already drafted safety protocols and will present it to the Board of Governors at their next meeting on June 3.

He also said they are suggesting additional protocols such as conducting temperature checks, disinfecting playing venues and dugouts, and putting alcohols and foot baths in the stadium.

Limiting spectators in the venue is also being considered.

"Lahat ng first row ng venues, walang puwede umupo. Tapos two seats apart [ang mga manonood]," Marcial said.

The commissioner said five teams are planning to conduct COVID-19 testing. San Miguel Corporation's Ramon S. Ang also offered COVID-19 testing for PBA employees.

Marcial added that the league will follow the directives of health authorities regarding the resumption of sports activities.

"Kung ano ang sabihin ng gobyerno, doon din tayo," he said. —MGP, GMA News