WNBA to hold virtual draft amid coronavirus pandemic

The WNBA will host its annual draft virtually amid the coronavirus pandemic. 

The association announced Thursday that the virtual draft will take place April 17, without players, guests and media.

“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,” WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert said in a statement.

“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,” Engelbert added.

The draft will be aired on ESPN2 and will be available on the ESPN app.

The WNBA will also honor Gianna Bryant, Alyssa Altobelli and Payton Chester, three youth basketball players who died in the January helicopter accident that also killed NBA legend Kobe Bryant.

The association said it is conducting “ongoing scenario planning” around the coronavirus pandemic in the upcoming season, including the scheduled start of training camp on April 26 and the scheduled tip of the season on May 15.