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Women's World Cup logo revealed; Opals legend Jackson named ambassador

MAY 10, 2021 MIES (Switzerland) - Today marked 500 days before the start of the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2022 in Australia, and to signify the occasion, the official logo for FIBA's flagship women's event was revealed along with the event ambassador. International basketball and Opals legend Lauren Jackson took center stage by being named the event ambassador for next year's women's world cup. The creation of the New South Wales Legacy Program was also announced.   FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2006 champion and four-time Olympic medalist Jackson said: "I feel really honored to be the ambassador for this event. I love this sport so much and I am still giving my life to this sport, but being able to be part of the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup in a different capacity is such a huge honor."

Lauren Jackson, FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2022 Event Ambassador

The event's logo was also revealed today, representing Australia's heritage and spirit of unity in a design inspired by 14-year-old Aboriginal basketballer and artist Amarlie 'Marlii' Briscoe. Briscoe created a stunning piece of Indigenous artwork titled 'My Story', representing everything she loves in her life, including her biggest loves - 'art', 'basketball', 'culture' and 'country'. These symbols of love from her artwork have been represented within the traditional basketball-shaped logo, which also features the newly launched FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup trophy. Inspired by Briscoe's painting, the logo was created by VMLY&R Branding, based in Portugal, together with Campfire x, an Indigenous Australian led creative consultancy, and the young artist to transform her piece into the brand that will show the world the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2022.

FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2022 official logo revealed

Next year will be the first time the tournament has been staged in Australia since 1994, and FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis was pleased to see the event come to life through the creation of a meaningful brand.  Zagklis said: "FIBA is really looking forward to the world-class city of Sydney again hosting the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup, 27 years after it was first held in the country when so many legendary players took part. I extend my congratulations to 2006 FIBA Women's World Champion, Lauren Jackson, who will play an important role as event ambassador. Lauren has inspired a huge number of girls not only in Australia but across the world, to play basketball and her contribution to the sport and her achievements are exemplary. "With 500 days to go, today's milestones and the launch of this unique logo, inspired by a very talented young Indigenous artist, are both exciting steps towards next year's tip-off." Attending the launch in Sydney, the Minister for Investment, Jobs, Tourism & Western Sydney, The Hon. Stuart Ayres MP said: "I have no doubt the Australian public will be eager to soak up the atmosphere of this world-class sporting tournament featuring the best international female basketballers in Sydney, and I'm sure the participating nations will feel right at home throughout the competition. "We can't wait to stage this fantastic event as part of the NSW Government's 10 World Cups in 10 Years initiative, which supports our ambition for Sydney and NSW to be the events capitals of the Asia Pacific." Minister for Sport, The Hon. Dr. Geoffrey Lee MP, announced the NSW government's additional investment to deliver a significant legacy to the people of NSW and basketball as a sport. Minister Lee said: "With tournament ambassador and basketball legend Lauren Jackson AO having grown up in regional NSW, we have seen first-hand how important it is to provide opportunities across the State to empower participants to reach their potential. "From delivery of a basketball-specific version of the Daughters and Dads Active and Empowered program, new 3x3 competitions and scholarships for aspiring female leaders in the sport, this investment will ensure people of all ages and abilities will have the opportunity to engage with one of the world's most popular sports."

### About the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2022 The 19th edition of FIBA's most distinguished women's event, the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2022, will take place in Sydney, Australia from September 22 to October 1. National teams will qualify for the event via four global qualifying tournaments in February 2022. The FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2022 is supported by the NSW Government through its major events and tourism agency, Destination NSW and the Office of Sport. For further information about the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2022, visit womensbasketballworldcup/2022 or follow FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2022 on facebook.com/FIBAWWC, twitter.com/FIBAWWC, instagram.com/fibawwc and youtube.com/fiba. NBA REFEREE TONY BROWN TO MISS REMAINDER OF 2020-21 SEASON   NEW YORK, May 10, 2021 – NBA referee Tony Brown will not officiate the rest of the regular season nor during the 2021 NBA Playoffs after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer last month.    “Tony is a beloved member of the NBA family, and in particular, our officiating family,” said Monty McCutchen, NBA Senior Vice President, Referee Development and Training.  “In addition to exemplifying what it means to be a world class referee on the court, Tony also touches so many lives off the court.  The NBA officiating family and the entire NBA family stand behind Tony with thoughts and prayers as he embarks upon this courageous battle.”   Brown, who has officiated 1,109 regular-season games and 35 playoff games – including his first Finals appearance in 2020 – in his 19 seasons as an NBA official, has been undergoing treatment since learning of the diagnosis.    Tony and his entire family wish to express their gratitude for the well-wishes, prayers, support and love which they have received over recent days. NEW ORLEANS’ DAVID GRIFFIN FINED   NEW YORK, May 9, 2021 – New Orleans Pelicans Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations David Griffin has been fined $50,000 for public criticism of the officiating and comments detrimental to the NBA, it was announced today by Byron Spruell, President, League Operations.   Griffin made his remarks to the media on May 7.   KYRIE IRVING AND BROOKLYN NETS FINED   NEW YORK, May 5, 2021 – Brooklyn Nets guard Kyrie Irving and the Nets organization have each been fined $35,000 for violating league rules governing media interview access, the NBA announced today. The fines result from Irving's repeated refusal to participate in team postgame media availability. NBA AND NBPA ANNOUNCE COVID-19 TEST RESULTS NEW YORK, May 5, 2021 – Of the 492 players tested for COVID-19 since April 28, four new players have returned confirmed positive tests.    Anyone who has returned a confirmed positive test, or has been identified as having been in close contact to an infected person, is isolated or quarantined until they are cleared under the rules established by the NBA and the Players Association in accordance with CDC guidance.  WNBA ANNOUNCES BROADCAST AND STREAMING SCHEDULE FOR LEAGUE’S 25th REGULAR SEASON   –  Regular Season Schedule to Feature 100 National Broadcasts Across ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, CBS Television Network, CBS Sports Network and NBA TV –   –  Google to be Presenting Partner of the WNBA “25 for 25” on ESPN, Including Opening Weekend ABC Doubleheader Featuring MVPs Elena Delle Donne, Candace Parker, Breanna Stewart, and A’ja Wilson –   –  CBS Sports Extends Partnership with WNBA with 40 Regular Season Games per Season under Multi-year Deal –   –  Twitter to Stream 12 games and Oculus from Facebook to Stream 20 games –   NEW YORK, May 3, 2021 – The WNBA’s 25th season, which will include a 32-game schedule for each team, will feature 100 national telecasts across ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, CBS Television Network, CBS Sports Network and NBA TV.    A link to the current national television schedule, as well as to games to be streamed on Twitter, Facebook Watch, and Oculus from Facebook, can be found here.   Google, recently announced as a premier supporter of the league as a WNBA Changemaker, as well as an Official Technology Partner and the WNBA’s Official Trends and Fan Insights Partner, will be the presenting partner of the WNBA on ESPN. Google has collaborated with ESPN and the WNBA to deliver “25 for 25”, a 25-game schedule of telecasts across ABC, ESPN and ESPN2 in celebration of the WNBA’s 25th season.   In addition, as part of the commitment of CBS Sports to the WNBA, the network and the league, which first partnered in 2019, have announced a multi-year extension of their relationship through which CBS Sports will present WNBA regular season games, including 40 contests this season, featuring up to three games on the CBS Television Network that will also stream live on Paramount+.    NBA TV, now in its 19th consecutive year of carrying WNBA games, will feature 35 games during the 2021 season.    In 2021, the WNBA and partners Twitter and Facebook will continue to deliver programming to fans via alternative live streaming platforms.  As Twitter and the WNBA enter the fifth year of their partnership, Twitter will offer a 12-game slate on #WNBATwitterLive, as well as real-time game highlights and post-game interviews. #WNBATwitterLive will also deliver top voices from the sports community and several new ways for fans to engage, including fan Tweets, Q&As, votes and trivia. Facebook, now in its second straight year as a provider of WNBA game action, will present 20 games available on both Facebook Watch and Venues on Oculus Quest.   WNBA League Pass also returns this season offering over 110 games.   “Providing significant opportunities to view WNBA games across traditional and streaming platforms drives expanded coverage to our growing fan base,” said WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert.  “Our goal is to deliver as many WNBA games and content to our passionate fans and supporters across platforms that best match the evolution of content consumption. Also, we are grateful to Google and ESPN for collaborating on “25 for 25” and we will continue to look for ways to innovate and shape the future landscape of the fan experience.”  The WNBA will tip off its landmark 25th regular season in the national spotlight on Friday, May 14, with a weekend of action featuring all 12 teams.   The national telecast schedule gets underway on opening day when NBA TV presents Sabrina Ionescu, the No. 1 overall draft pick in 2020, and the New York Liberty hosting the Indiana Fever and Kelsey Mitchell, the WNBA’s sixth-leading scorer last season (7 p.m. ET). Following that game, the action shifts to CBSSN, which will highlight Diana Taurasi, the league’s all-time points leader, and the Phoenix Mercury visiting the Minnesota Lynx, led by back-to-back WNBA Rookie of the Year winners Napheesa Collier and Crystal Dangerfield (9 p.m. ET).  In addition on opening day, Twitter will deliver a matchup of two of the league’s top scorers in 2020 as DeWanna Bonner and the Connecticut Sun visit Chennedy Carter and the Atlanta Dream, whose roster also features Aari McDonald, the No. 3 overall pick in the recent WNBA Draft presented by State Farm® (7:30 p.m. ET).  The final game on opening day is when Facebook carries the WNBA head coaching debut of Vickie Johnson, whose Dallas Wings with 2020 leading scorer Arike Ogumbowale will be in Los Angeles to meet the Sparks, led by a pair of former All-Stars, sisters Chiney and Nneka Ogwumike (10:30 p.m. ET).   The national focus returns Saturday, May 15, with an ABC doubleheader. The spotlight will first shine on two-time league MVP Candace Parker, who will make her debut with the Chicago Sky at Washington against former MVP Elena Delle Donne and the Mystics (1 p.m. ET). Immediately following that game, ABC will turn its attention to Seattle, where reigning WNBA Finals MVP Breanna Stewart, 11-time All-Star selection Sue Bird and the defending champion Storm will receive their championship rings prior to hosting the Las Vegas Aces, led by 2020 regular-season MVP A’ja Wilson and newly acquired All-Star Chelsea Gray (3 p.m. ET).    Opening weekend wraps up with a pair of games on CBS Sports Network (CBSSN) on Sunday, May 16, as the Liberty and Fever will face each other again, this time in Indiana (2 p.m. ET), and the Mercury will visit the Connecticut Sun (7 p.m. ET).   The regular season, currently scheduled to conclude on Sunday, Sept. 19, and to be followed by a traditional playoffs and Finals format, will include a break from July 15 until Aug. 11, during which time the USA Basketball Women’s National Team will be competing for its seventh consecutive Olympic gold medal.   “We have been extremely proud to collaborate with the WNBA since its inception in 1996,” said Carol Stiff, ESPN vice president, programming & acquisitions, “ESPN is thrilled to continue that relationship by programming 25 games during the regular season for basketball fans in honor of the 25th anniversary of the league. We look forward to continuing our support of the WNBA's players by spotlighting both their amazing talents and their commitment to social justice on the national stage.”   “We are excited to extend our partnership with the WNBA for years to come and bring high quality basketball to fans across the nation,” said Dan Weinberg, Executive Vice President, Programming, CBS Sports. “The CBS Sports schedule, highlighted by two broadcast games on the CBS Television Network and three games on CBS Sports Network throughout opening weekend, will bring amazing action featuring some of the biggest names in the league to a wide audience throughout the summer. We are thrilled to be a part of the league’s 25th season celebration and showcase the best players in the world on our networks.”   Highlights of the Broadcast Schedule for the WNBA “25 for 25” on ESPN presented by Google ·       In honor of the WNBA’s 25th season and 25 years of airing WNBA games, ESPN networks – the league’s longest-running broadcast partner – will present 25 telecasts over the course of the regular season, including three on ESPN, 12 on ESPN2, and an all-time high nine on ABC.  ESPN also will air AT&T WNBA All-Star 2021, details of which will be announced in the near future.  ·       Additionally, ABC/ESPN/ESPN2 will provide coverage of up to 19 postseason games during the WNBA Playoffs presented by Google and the WNBA Finals 2021 presented by YouTube TV. All ESPN telecasts during the regular season and postseason will stream live on the ESPN app. In addition to airing an opening weekend doubleheader, ABC will present a second doubleheader on Saturday, June 5, featuring Las Vegas at Washington (1 p.m. ET) and the return of Candace Parker to Los Angeles as the Chicago Sky visit the Sparks (3 p.m. ET). In honor of the WNBA’s Inaugural Game in 1997, ESPN will televise a rematch of the Liberty at Sparks on Sunday, June 20 (4 p.m. ET), when Ionescu and New York visit L.A. and 2016 MVP Nneka Ogwumike. ESPN will televise a matchup of the WNBA’s career points leader, Taurasi, against the league’s all-time assists leader, Bird, on Friday, July 9, when the Phoenix Mercury host the Seattle Storm (9 p.m. ET). Playoff seeding could be on the line on the final day of the regular season, Sunday, Sept. 19, when Phoenix hosts Las Vegas on ABC (3 p.m. ET).   Highlights of the CBS Sports Telecast Schedule The CBS Television Network and CBS Sports Network will combine to carry 40 games, including up to three on CBS Television Network, with all CBS Television Network games streaming live on Paramount+. CBS Television Network will feature a rematch between 2020 first-round playoff opponents Connecticut and Chicago on Saturday, June 19 when the Sun visit the Sky (2 p.m. ET), and on Saturday, June 26 will spotlight the 2019 champion Washington Mystics at Dallas, against 2020 WNBA scoring leader Arike Ogunbowale and the Wings, who made history during the WNBA Draft presented by State Farm on April 15, becoming the first team in league history to make the No. 1 (Charli Collier) and No. 2 (Awak Kuier) overall selections (1 p.m. ET). Both matchups will also be streamed live on Paramount+. Following an off-season of unprecedented player movement, CBSSN will present some of the most anticipated action when stars take the court against their former teams for the first time… Las Vegas’ Chelsea Gray, a three-time All-Star during her tenure with Los Angeles, will lace them up against her former team for the first time on Friday, May 21, when the Sparks visit the Aces (10:30 p.m. ET). Chicago’s Candace Parker, a two-time league MVP in her 13 seasons with Los Angeles, will meet her former team for the first time on Friday, May 28 when the Sky host the Sparks (8 p.m. ET). And New York’s Natasha Howard, the 2019 WNBA Defensive Player of the Year and a two-time champion with Seattle, will go up against her former team for the first time when the Storm visits the Liberty on Wednesday, Aug. 18 (7 p.m. ET).   Highlights of the NBA TV Telecast Schedule While NBA TV will air the very first game of the season on opening day and carry a total of 35 contests, the network will place a particular focus on the race to the playoffs, delivering 29 telecasts – more than any other national carrier – when play resumes following the in-season break. NBA TV’s coverage will bracket the first part of the WNBA’s 2021 schedule when the network televises the very first game of the season (Indiana at New York on May 14 at 7 p.m. ET) and the final game before the break (Minnesota at Los Angeles on July 11 at 9 p.m. ET).   Highlights of Twitter Content Twitter’s 12-game package, available via @WNBA, will feature in game commentary from basketball insiders, influencers and WNBA legends. On Friday May 21, Twitter will deliver a matchup between the Atlanta Dream and the Indiana Fever (7 p.m. ET). Then on Tuesday, May 25, Twitter will spotlight the WNBA’s two most recent No. 1 overall draft selections when 2021 top pick Charli Collier and the Wings visit the Liberty and Sabrina Ionescu, the No. 1 pick in 2020 (7 p.m. ET). As part of the WNBA’s effort to bring fans closer to live game action, game presentations on Twitter will incorporate fan tweets as an overlay, polls for fans to vote on certain elements of the game, and real-time engagements with the commentators in unique ways.   Highlights of Facebook Watch and Venues on Oculus Quest Content Fifteen games prior to the in-season break and five when the league returns to action will be available on Facebook Watch via the WNBA Facebook page. The broadcasts will feature interactive elements that take advantage of the Facebook Watch social video platform. These same games will be available in 2D through Venues on Oculus Quest headsets (both Quest and Quest 2).  The schedule tips off on opening night, Friday, May 14, when it carries the Dallas Wings who will be in Los Angeles to meet the Sparks (10:30 p.m. ET). Coverage wraps up on Friday, Sept. 17, when Minnesota is at Indiana (7 p.m. ET). A leading virtual reality platform, Oculus is an Official Marketing Partner of the WNBA and an associate partner of the WNBA’s Believe in Women platform.    About the WNBA Entering its 25th season in 2021, the WNBA is a bold, progressive basketball league that stands for the power of women. Featuring 12 teams, the W is a unique sports property that combines competition and entertainment with a commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and social responsibility. Through its world-class athletes, the in-game fan experience, TV and digital broadcasts, digital and social content, and community outreach programs, the league celebrates and elevates the game of basketball and the culture around it.   In 2020, the WNBA and the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) signed a groundbreaking eight-year CBA that charts a new course for women’s basketball – and women’s sports overall – with a focus on increased player compensation, improvements to the player experience, expanded career development opportunities and resources specifically tailored to the female professional athlete. Key elements of the agreement are supported through the league’s new partnership platform, WNBA Changemakers, with AT&T, the WNBA’s Marquee Partner and inaugural Changemaker, as well as fellow inaugural Changemakers Deloitte and Nike. In addition, during the 2020 season, the WNBA and WNBPA launched the WNBA Justice Movement forming the Social Justice Council with the mission of being a driving force of necessary change and continuing conversations about race and voting rights, among other important societal issues.   For more information, visit WNBA.com. Stars of the game unveil FIBA's new Women's World Cup trophy MAY 3, 2021 MIES (Switzerland) - The spectacular new trophy for the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup has been unveiled, and it is one that celebrates both the rich history of the competition and today's heroes. Using a unique approach to announce its arrival as the coveted prize for winners of the competition, top players both past and present from countries all over took to social media to inform their followers on Monday, May 3, about the new trophy.   Players from the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2018 in Tenerife took part in the digital launch, as well as legends of the women's game and promising young players representing the future. A number of National Federations joined the digital celebration also.   As part of a global message to celebrate women's basketball and promote the values of diversity, unity and strength, the launch of this trophy also represents the prestige of the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup and highlights the greatness of the many teams that have joined basketball's elite since the very first edition in 1953. With that in mind, the new trophy has unified diamonds at the base and a crown of infinite energy that flows upwards. It is crafted from gold plated sterling silver, grown over a resin composite with gloss white enamel detailing. It is a true symbol of basketball royalty. FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup Trophy Unveiled "We are both proud and excited to have the stars of the women's game unveil this striking new trophy today, and we also take this opportunity to celebrate women's basketball and recognize the many achievements made over the years," said Andreas Zagklis, FIBA Secretary General. "The trophy itself is a unique combination of contemporary engineering and traditional silversmith techniques and it is definitely going to be a big moment next year when it's presented to the winning team at the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup in Australia." The re-design of FIBA's trophies is part of the ongoing process of enhancing the brand and position of FIBA's competitions, which began in 2017. The FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup trophy echoes the iconic silhouette of the Naismith Trophy, which is presented to the winners of the men's FIBA Basketball World Cup. It also shares the signature details of the silverware for the FIBA U17 Women's Basketball World Cup and FIBA U19 Women's Basketball World Cup. This magnificent trophy will be awarded for the first time at the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2022 in Sydney, Australia, where 12 powerhouse nations across Africa, Americas, Asia, Europe and Oceania will compete from September 22 to October 1. National teams will qualify for the event via four global FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2022 Qualifying Tournaments in February 2022.  The trophy was conceived and designed by WORKS creative agency, which produced the physical trophy with Ottewill Silversmiths and the official launch film. ### About FIBA FIBA (fiba.basketball) - the world governing body for basketball, is an independent association formed by 213 National Basketball Federations throughout the world. It is recognized as the sole competent authority in basketball by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). For further information about FIBA, visit fiba.basketball or follow FIBA on facebook.com/fiba, twitter.com/fiba,  instagram.com/fiba and youtube.com/fiba.

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Upcoming FIBA Esports III balloons to 60 national teams

APRIL 13, 2021 MIES (Switzerland) - Following the success of the previous editions of the FIBA Esports Open, a whopping 60 national teams from all over the world will take part in the upcoming FIBA Esports Open III, which tips off on April 16. As in the second FIBA Esports Open edition, there will be six regional conferences. Six teams will battle it out in the South East Asia, Africa and Middle East Conferences while North & Central America will have eight sides. South America will have seven teams while 28 will play in the Europe Conference.

For the first time, the North & Central America and Europe Conferences will be comprised of two divisions: Current Generation (PS4) and Next Generation (PS5). Group stage games are scheduled for Friday and the best-of-three Play-Off series will follow on the Saturday and Sunday. There are three different weekends for the FIBA Esports Open III. Starting the competition off will be the South East Asia, Africa, Middle East Conferences on April 16-18, and the North & Central America (Current Generation) and Europe (Current Generation) will be held April 23-25. The FIBA Esports Open III concludes May 7-9 and involves North & Central America (Next Gen), Europe (Next Gen) and South America. All games, just like previous editions, will be available on FIBA's digital channels with live content being streamed across Facebook, Twitch and YouTube channels. Group stage games will be shown on Facebook and YouTube and commentated by remote casters thanks to the partnership between FIBA and the commentating platform Spalk, while all Play-Off games will be fully produced from FIBA's virtual studio in Latvia. The popularity of the FIBA Esports Opens is plain to see, with 17 national teams having taken part in the inaugural esports competition last June and then 38 in the recent FIBA Esports Open II. Argentina, Australia, Cote d'Ivoire, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and USA were all victorious in their respective regional conferences during the Esports Open II, which took place over three weekends across November and December in 2020. Australia, Argentina, Italy, the Philippines and Saudi Arabia topped their respective conferences and emerged victorious at the first-ever FIBA Esports Open earlier last year. To find out more, visit the FIBA Esports Open III website here.

### About FIBA FIBA (fiba.basketball) - the world governing body for basketball, is an independent association formed by 213 National Basketball Federations throughout the world. It is recognized as the sole competent authority in basketball by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). For further information about FIBA, visit fiba.basketball or follow FIBA on facebook.com/fiba, twitter.com/fiba,  instagram.com/fiba and youtube.com/fiba.     FIVE-STAR PROSPECT MICHAEL FOSTER JR. SIGNS WITH NBA G LEAGUE IGNITE   – 2021 McDonald’s All-American Becomes First Signee for Ignite’s Second Season –   WALNUT CREEK, Calif., April 23, 2021 – Forward Michael Foster Jr., a five-star prospect, has signed to play with NBA G League Ignite next season, NBA G League President Shareef Abdur-Rahim announced today.  Foster, ranked by ESPN as the No. 7 prospect in the Class of 2021, is the first player to sign with NBA G League Ignite for its second season.   “I’m super ready to learn the NBA game and train like an NBA player from NBA guys while playing for NBA G League Ignite,” Foster said.   A 2021 McDonald’s All-American, Foster spent his last two high school seasons at Hillcrest Prep in Phoenix, where he averaged 32.2 points and 18.4 rebounds as a senior and 26.3 points, 13.4 rebounds and 6.1 blocks as a junior.   In his first two high school seasons, Foster led Washington High School of Information Technology in his native Milwaukee to back-to-back Division 2 state runner-up finishes.  He earned All-State and All-Area First Team honors as a sophomore.   NBA G League Ignite is a first-of-its-kind program that gives top young prospects a chance to begin their professional careers while receiving mentorship and life skills training and preparing for the NBA Draft.  Coached by five-time NBA champion Brian Shaw, Ignite recently completed a successful inaugural season that featured elite prospects Jalen Green, Jonathan Kuminga, Daishen Nix and Isaiah Todd, and international standout Princepal Singh.   About NBA G League Ignite NBA G League Ignite is a first-of-its-kind team dedicated to developing top young prospects in preparation for the NBA Draft.  Based in Walnut Creek, Calif., and coached by five-time NBA champion Brian Shaw, the roster includes elite players who are eligible for the 2022 NBA Draft as well as NBA and NBA G League veterans who serve as mentors to the team’s young talent.  The one-year program focuses on high-level competition and accelerated on-court development for players who are beginning their professional careers.  Additionally, the team provides life skills training that includes financial literacy education, community service involvement and scholarship opportunities.  While Ignite is not a traditional NBA G League team, competition includes games against NBA G League opponents and exhibitions against international teams.   The following was distributed by ESPN:   April 23, 2021     ESPN & Marvel to Offer First NBA Special Edition Presented by State Farm: Marvel’s Arena of Heroes Alternate Presentation for Golden State Warriors vs. New Orleans Pelicans Game on May 3   Exclusive Alternate Presentation to Air on ESPN2, ESPN+ & ESPN Deportes with Traditional Game Telecast Airing on ESPN   The Avengers to Observe Both Teams Battle to Become Marvel’s Newest Champion   ESPN, Marvel Continue Decade-Long Sports Content Collaboration with Special Telecast Driven by Original Marvel Storyline   ESPN and Marvel announced a groundbreaking collaboration today to launch the first-ever Marvel-inspired alternate presentation for the Golden State Warriors vs. New Orleans Pelicans game on Monday, May 3. The exclusive alternate presentation, NBA Special Edition Presented by State Farm: Marvel’s Arena of Heroes, will start at 7:30 p.m. ET on ESPN2, ESPN+ and ESPN Deportes with the traditional game telecast on ESPN. This marks ESPN’s second live NBA game on ESPN+.   The latest development in Marvel and ESPN’s long history of sports content collaboration, the telecast will integrate elements from an original Marvel story and iconic characters including Iron Man, Black Panther, Captain Marvel, Captain America, Black Widow, and Doctor Strange throughout the live game, including 3D virtual characters, custom graphics and animation packages.   After a narrow victory over an invading alien army, the Avengers receive an ominous threat from the enemy who vows to return in greater numbers and force. The Black Panther and Iron Man quickly realize they will need more help and form a plan to expand their ranks to fight this impending threat. Recognizing the superior physical abilities, agility, and tenacity of Earth’s greatest athletes, the Avengers will hold a series of contests where the winners earn the right to train and fight alongside them as Marvel’s Champions! The Avengers will begin their recruitment with the NBA elite and observe the battle between the Warriors and the Pelicans, focusing on three star players from each team.   Golden State Warriors: Stephen Curry, three-time NBA Champion and two-time NBA MVP; Draymond Green, three-time NBA Champion; Andrew Wiggins, 2014-15 NBA Rookie of the Year.   New Orleans Pelicans: Zion Williamson, 2019 NBA Draft top pick; Brandon Ingram, 2019-20 NBA Most Improved Player; Lonzo Ball, 2017-18 NBA All-Rookie Second Team.   Fans will be able to follow along as these athletes are put to the test, gaining Marvel Hero points for their achievements and performance during the game. The player with the most Marvel Hero points on the winning team will be crowned as Marvel’s first Champion following the NBA Special Edition Presented by State Farm: Marvel’s Arena of Heroes.   Scoring system: One Marvel Hero Point will be awarded for every point, rebound, assist, steal and block; One Marvel Hero Point will be deducted for every missed field goal, free throw or turnover.   ESPN commentators Ryan Ruocco and Richard Jefferson will provide commentary in a fully customized Marvel-themed studio at ESPN’s Bristol, Conn. campus. Additionally, the special presentation will include commentary and analysis from Marvel expert Angélique Roché.   “Marvel and ESPN have brought the worlds of sports and Super Heroes together for years through comics, documentaries, and other stories celebrating athletes and their extraordinary abilities,” said Mike Pasciullo, vice president, marketing and communications, Marvel Entertainment. “The new Marvel’s Arena of Heroes telecast will be the first of its kind to bring Marvel’s storytelling directly to the real-time experience of a NBA game, and we are excited for fans to be able to watch their favorite players through the lens of Marvel’s mightiest heroes.”   “We’re eager for fans to experience this unique, innovative presentation that will pair Marvel and ESPN’s exceptional storytelling and production,” said Matt Kenny, ESPN vice president, programming and acquisitions. “We are proud to showcase the ‘larger than life’ abilities of these NBA stars in a manner in which only Disney and Marvel can deliver.”   “Marvel and ESPN have brought the worlds of sports and Super Heroes together for years through comics, documentaries, and other stories celebrating athletes and their extraordinary abilities,” said Mike Pasciullo, vice president, marketing and communications, Marvel Entertainment. “The new Marvel’s Arena of Heroes telecast will be the first of its kind to bring Marvel’s storytelling directly to the real-time experience of a NBA game, and we are excited for fans to be able to watch their favorite players through the lens of Marvel’s mightiest heroes.”   “We are thrilled to work alongside ESPN and Marvel to present fans with the first-ever Marvel-inspired alternate NBA telecast,” said David Denenberg, NBA senior vice president, global media distribution & business affairs. “This fun and innovative game presentation builds upon our goal of providing personalized and compelling viewing options for our fans.” The traditional telecast of the Warriors vs. Pelicans game will be exclusive in the New Orleans market and will air simultaneously on ESPN. Dave Pasch will call the action with analyst Mark Jackson and reporter Cassidy Hubbarth on site in New Orleans. Both the NBA Special Edition Presented by State Farm: Marvel’s Arena of Heroes alternate presentation and the traditional game telecast will stream via the ESPN App.           NBA AND NBPA ANNOUNCE COVID-19 TEST RESULTS NEW YORK, April 21, 2021 – Of the 488 players tested for COVID-19 since April 14, three new players have returned confirmed positive tests.    Anyone who has returned a confirmed positive test, or has been identified as having been in close contact to an infected person, is isolated or quarantined until they are cleared under the rules established by the NBA and the Players Association in accordance with CDC guidance.  Please be advised of the following update to the 2020-21 NBA Schedule:     Wednesday, April 28, 2021 The L.A. Lakers at Washington game will now be televised by ESPN, with game time changed to 7:30 PM ET. The Chicago at New York game will no longer be televised by ESPN.   APR. 28, 2021 LOCAL ET NET L.A. Lakers at Washington 7:30PM 7:30PM ESPN LA Clippers at Phoenix 7:00PM 10:00PM ESPN     Sunday, May 9, 2021 The New York at LA Clippers game will now be televised by ESPN.   MAY 9, 2021 LOCAL ET NET Miami at Boston 1:00PM 1:00PM ESPN New York at LA Clippers 12:30PM 3:30PM ESPN            PACERS’ SAMPSON SUSPENDED, SPURS’ MILLS AND GAY FINED         NEW YORK, April 21, 2021 – Indiana Pacers forward JaKarr Sampson has been suspended one game without pay for headbutting San Antonio Spurs guard Patty Mills, and Mills and Spurs forward Rudy Gay have each been fined for their roles in an on-court altercation, it was announced today by Kiki VanDeWeghe, Executive Vice President, Basketball Operations. The incident began when Sampson and Mills were battling for rebounding position. It continued to the next possession when Mills made contact with Sampson and Sampson shoved Mills. Sampson then furthered the altercation by aggressively confronting and headbutting Mills. Sampson’s actions resulted in a Flagrant Foul 2 and an automatic ejection. Mills received a technical foul and has been fined $25,000 for his role in the altercation. Gay also received a technical foul and has been fined $20,000 for escalating the incident by shoving Sampson. The incident occurred with 9:32 remaining in the fourth quarter of the Spurs’ 109-94 win over the Pacers on April 19 at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Sampson will serve his suspension tonight when Indiana faces the Oklahoma City Thunder at Bankers Life Fieldhouse.   To view the incident, click on the following link: https://www.nba.com/watch/video/sas-vs-ind-04-19-21 ###                                                                                          JOINT NBA AND NBPA STATEMENT   NEW YORK, April 20, 2021 – NBPA Executive Director Michele Roberts and NBA Commissioner Adam Silver released the following joint statement today:   “George Floyd’s murder was a flash point for how we look at race and justice in our country, and we are pleased that justice appears to have been served.  But we also recognize that there is much work to be done and the National Basketball Association and the National Basketball Players Association, together with our newly-formed Social Justice Coalition, will redouble our efforts to advocate for meaningful change in the areas of criminal justice and policing.”   PHILADELPHIA’S JOEL EMBIID RECEIVES MARCH NBA CARES COMMUNITY ASSIST AWARD PRESENTED BY KAISER PERMANENTE   – NBA and Kaiser Permanente to Donate $10,000 to Covenant House Pennsylvania –   NEW YORK, April 19, 2021 – Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid has received the March NBA Cares Community Assist Award presented by Kaiser Permanente in recognition of his dedicated efforts to address housing insecurity in Greater Philadelphia, the NBA today announced.  Each month the award recognizes a player who best reflects the passion that the league and NBA players share for giving back to their communities.   While Embiid has long been focused on addressing disparities in his local community and impacting the lives of youth and families, the COVID-19 pandemic emphasized the stark inequities present.  This March, after being named a 2021 NBA All-Star starter for the fourth consecutive year, Embiid continued his efforts to combat homelessness in Philadelphia with a $100,000 contribution to three Philadelphia-based organizations: Youth Services Inc., Project HOME and Sunday Breakfast Mission.  The donation provided 15,000 meals to those in need, 4,000 essential clothing items, medical treatment for 1,000 housing insecure individuals, access to a six-week summer camp for 50 young people experiencing homelessness and shelter for more than 300 teens facing housing insecurity.  Embiid extended his support of local community members by assisting five families that had been greatly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, providing each with gifts and clothing, groceries and housing rent relief for the next year.    Much of Embiid’s community efforts over the last year have focused on COVID-19 relief.  At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Embiid joined 76ers Managing Partners Josh Harris and David Blitzer to donate $1.3 million to Penn Medicine to develop antibody testing of frontline healthcare workers.  As part of his continued support for healthcare workers, he pledged $500,000 through the #FirstRespondersFirst campaign, an initiative of Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Thrive Global and the CAA Foundation, to provide PPE to frontline workers.   “I am humbled to be recognized as the recipient of the NBA Cares Community Assist Award,” said Embiid.  “It has always been incredibly important for me to use the platform I have been given to create positive change.  Housing insecurity and homelessness affect so many in our communities, and we need to come together, now more than ever, to support one another.  I am proud to support organizations like Covenant House Pennsylvania that are working every day to provide essential resources and services.”   Embiid was presented with the award during a special virtual ceremony with league, Kaiser Permanente and 76ers officials on Friday, and will also be recognized during the team’s home game tonight against the Golden State Warriors (7:30 p.m. ET on ESPN.)  In addition, Kaiser Permanente and the NBA will donate $10,000 on Embiid’s behalf to Covenant House Pennsylvania.   The NBA Cares Community Assist Award presented by Kaiser Permanente recognizes an NBA player each month who best reflects the passion that the league and its players share for giving back to their communities.  It honors the standard set by NBA Legend David Robinson, who improved the community piece by piece.  At the end of the 2020-21 regular season, the Season-long NBA Cares Community Assist Award winner will be announced.  To learn more, please visit https://communityassist.nba.com/.   ###     SAN ANTONIO SPURS FINED   NEW YORK, April 18, 2021 – The NBA today announced that the San Antonio Spurs have been fined $25,000 for violating the league’s player resting policy.   The violation occurred when the Spurs rested three players in the same road game against the Phoenix Suns on April 17.   TORONTO RAPTORS FINED   NEW YORK, April 17, 2021 – The NBA today announced that the Toronto Raptors have been fined $25,000 for failing to comply with league policies governing player rest and injury reporting.   # # #  Isaiah Piñeiro se integra a la nave Pirata   Quebradillas, P.R – Los Piratas de Quebradillas anuncian que adquieren los derechos del delantero de 6’7” Isaiah Piñeiro desde los Atléticos de San Germán para la temporada 2021 del Baloncesto Superior Nacional.   “Como parte de nuestro compromiso por lograr el campeonato, adquirimos al delantero de la Selección Nacional de Puerto Rico, Isaiah Piñeiro”, mencionó el Apoderado de los Piratas, Roberto Roca. “Nos quedaba un cambio por hacer y se hizo, esto nos lleva con opciones del campeonato, tenemos un gran equipo”.   Piñeiro de 26 años, con experiencia en la NBA con el equipo de los Sacramento Kings y jugador titular de la Selección Nacional de Puerto Rico, tuvo promedios de 15 puntos y 9.5 rebotes en la ventana de febrero 2020 para la clasificación al Americup 2022.   “Con esta adquisición, Quebradillas se convierte nuevamente en un equipo contendor al campeonato. El año pasado (en la Burbuja) llegamos a nuestra quinta serie Final en los últimos 10 años y esta temporada 2021 no será la excepción”, comentó el Gerente General del equipo, Luis Gabriel “Gaby” Miranda.   Al momento, la edición de los Piratas de Quebradillas 2021 queda estructurada de la siguiente manera: 1.     Joseph Soto 2.     Mike Rosario 3.     José “Money” Rodríguez 4.     Alejandro “Bimbo” Carmona 5.     Alexis “Bebo” Colón 6.     Tyler Polo 7.     Ramón Clemente 8.     Isaiah Piñeiro 9.     Luis “Pelacoco” Hernández 10.  Jorge Brian Díaz 11.  Tu Holloway – refuerzo 12.  Refuerzo por firmar   La temporada 2021 del BSN está pautada para comenzar el jueves, 8 de julio. WNBA SUPPORTS HEALTH OF BLACK WOMEN AND GIRLS THROUGH LAUNCH OF PSA AND JOINT COMMUNITY DONATION AS PART OF 2021 WNBA DRAFT PRESENTED BY STATE FARM® – In its 25th Year, the WNBA Partners with the WNBPA to Donate $25,000 to Black Women’s Health Imperative as Part of the League’s Focus on Health Equity –   NEW YORK, April 15, 2021 –  During the WNBA Draft 2021 presented by State Farm®, to be televised on ESPN on Thursday, April 15, from 7-9 p.m. ET, the WNBA will debut a player-led vaccine-related Public Service Announcement  featuring New York Liberty guard Layshia Clarendon, Los Angeles Sparks forward Nneka Ogwumike, Atlanta Dream center Elizabeth Williams, and Las Vegas Aces forward A’ja Wilson.  The WNBA/WNBPA Social Justice Council, founded after the murders of Breonna Taylor and George Floyd, will focus on health equity, highlighting the inequities and systemic racism in healthcare, while championing the importance of mental health, as one of their key focus areas during the 2021 season.   Throughout the PSA, the players shine a light on health inequities experienced by communities of color and the significant impacts of COVID-19 specifically on Black women and girls, and support further awareness and education around the vaccines.    As part of the WNBA’s commitment to combat pre-existing racial and economic inequities, including underinvestment in public health and unequal access to care, the league will partner with the WNBPA to donate $25,000 to the Black Women’s Health Imperative, supporting their mission to help protect and advance the health and wellness of Black women and girls.  Additionally, the WNBA plans to bring community vaccine sites to its markets before the start of season.    The PSA and donation are part of the overarching 25th Season ‘Count It’ campaign that serves as a backdrop for the entire 2021 season, when the WNBA and WNBPA will celebrate the players’ history of advocacy across a variety of societal issues. Led by the WNBA/WNBPA Social Justice Council, the league and union will continue to advance the efforts of the Justice Movement, the platform initiated in 2020 through which the players lead important work in the community to combat racial and gender inequality, promote advocacy for LBGTQ+ rights, and champion reform in systems where injustice persists. These collaborative efforts represent the WNBA/WNBPA’s continued commitment to advancing social justice and being a driving force of necessary change.   ABREN INSCRIPCIONES PARA EL SORTEO DE NUEVO INGRESO COMUNICADO DE PRENSA 15 de abril 2021 El Baloncesto Superior Nacional Femenino (BSNF) anunció la apertura de las inscripciones para el Sorteo de Nuevo Ingreso 2021.   Para formar parte del Sorteo de Nuevo Ingreso 2021 la jugadora debe haber nacido en o antes del 1 de enero de 2003 en Puerto Rico. De haber nacido fuera de Puerto Rico, esta debe ser hija o nieta de una persona nacida en Puerto Rico y someter la debida documentación para evidenciarlo.   Si la jugadora no cumple la regla de elegibilidad como puertorriqueña, puede entrar al BSNF si estableció en Puerto Rico su lugar de residencia por no menos de tres (3) años anteriores al comienzo del torneo en el cual está solicitando participar.   Las jugadoras tienen hasta el lunes 31 de mayo de 2021 para someter la hoja de inscripción con toda la documentación necesaria.   Aquellas jugadoras interesadas en participar podrán encontrar la hoja de inscripción en la página web del organismo (www.bsnfpr.net) y en todas sus redes sociales. Para mayor información pueden escribir un correo electrónico a info@bsnfpr.net o llamar al (787) 726-1526.   # # # # # Para más información del BSNF pueden visitar la página oficial en el Internet a la dirección bsnfpr.net, así como todas las plataformas en las redes sociales, Facebook: Baloncesto Superior Nacional Femenino, Instagram: @bsnfpur y Twitter: @bsnfpr.     First-ever FIBA official competition at FIBA’s Headquarters on FIBA 3x3 Women’s Series’ return April 15, 2021 MIES (Switzerland) – The FIBA 3x3 Women’s Series - the dedicated women’s 3x3 professional circuit - is back, starting with a stop organized by Swiss Basketball in Mies on May 15-16. It will mark the first time a FIBA official competition (3x3 or basketball combined) is organized at FIBA’s Headquarters, which have been renamed the Patrick Baumann House of Basketball in 2018 in memory of the former FIBA Secretary General and International Olympic Committee member. “The Patrick Baumann House of Basketball has been host to several 3x3 events before but organizing a FIBA official competition at home in front of our headquarters, on the same day that Patrick is inducted into the Naismith Hall of Fame, will definitely have a special meaning to us,” Zagklis added. The FIBA Open - the largest 3x3 grassroots event in Switzerland - has been organized at FIBA’s Headquarters since 2015 and will take place on June 19-20 in 2021. “We are delighted to work with Swiss Basketball to bring the FIBA 3x3 Women’s Series back after the great success of the 2019 edition,” FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis said. “One of FIBA’s three strategic pillars is the development of women in basketball and this competition will help the teams who are preparing everyday to get a chance to be the first women to play 3x3 at the Olympic Games in Tokyo on July 24-28, 2021.” A total of 8 teams will play in Mies: Hungary, Mongolia, Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Russia, Spain and Switzerland. For the first time, the players will compete for prize money. Swiss Basketball rejoiced the opportunity to organize a FIBA 3x3 Women’s Series event only two weeks before the FIBA 3x3 Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Graz, Austria on May 26-30. “It is an honor for Swiss Basketball to be able to organize the first stop of the FIBA 3x3 Women’s Series 2021,” Swiss Basketball President Giancarlo Sergi said. “After a year like that, we are happy to be able to collaborate with FIBA again on an international event of this importance. It will be key for all the competing teams and especially for Switzerland considering it is the ultimate big test before the Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Graz.” More FIBA 3x3 Women’s Series events will be announced at a later stage. ### Exciting, urban and innovative, 3x3 is inspired by several forms of streetball played worldwide and is considered the world’s number one urban team sport. Steered by FIBA, games see two teams of three players face off on a basketball half-court.         JAMES CADOGAN NAMED EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF NATIONAL BASKETBALL SOCIAL JUSTICE COALITION   NEW YORK, April 15, 2021 – The National Basketball Social Justice Coalition today announced that James Cadogan has been appointed as its first Executive Director.  Cadogan will assume the new position on May 10, 2021 and drive the strategic vision and day-to-day operations of the Coalition.  Announced in November 2020, the Coalition will lead the NBA family’s collaborative efforts to address racial inequality and advance social justice by raising awareness, educating and advocating for meaningful policy change in several areas, including voting access and criminal justice system reform at the national, state and local level.   In his new role, Cadogan will partner with the NBA, National Basketball Players Association (NBPA), National Basketball Coaches Association (NBCA), and individual players, coaches and teams to advance broader leaguewide social impact efforts that focus on action and help create change.  Cadogan will also be responsible for developing public education platforms and initiatives, identifying opportunities for policy reform and implementing effective advocacy efforts.   Cadogan joins the NBA family from Arnold Ventures, a national philanthropy, where he was a vice president overseeing a $90 million grant portfolio on criminal justice reform.  Prior to Arnold Ventures, Cadogan served as the inaugural director of the Thurgood Marshall Institute at the NAACP Legal Defense Fund.  Previously, he served eight years in the administration of President Barack H. Obama, where he was a senior official at the United States Department of Justice and held roles as Counselor to the Attorney General of the United States, and as Senior Counselor and Director of Policy in the Civil Rights Division.  In 2014, Cadogan received the Attorney General’s Award for Exceptional Service, the department’s highest award for employee performance.   “James’ expertise in public policy and record of success in vision and strategy-setting will help drive the priorities of the National Basketball Social Justice Coalition, and ensure we are creating meaningful impact in key areas of reform at the national, state, and local levels,” said NBA Deputy Commissioner and National Basketball Social Justice Coalition Board Member Mark Tatum.  “We are proud to name him as the first Executive Director of the Coalition and look forward to his leadership in furthering our efforts to advance social and equal justice.”   "James' vast array of experience in policy development, strategic planning, lobbying, litigation and research – all at both the private sector and federal government levels – reveals the considerable value he will deliver to the mission of the Social Justice Coalition,” said NBPA Executive Director and National Basketball Social Justice Coalition Board Member Michele Roberts.  “We are thrilled he will be joining us."   Cadogan will develop and lead an internal staff and manage relationships with partner organizations, external consultants, lawmakers and elected officials to develop and execute advocacy efforts tied to policy reform priorities.  He will report to the Coalition’s Board of Directors.   “The Social Justice Coalition cements the NBA family’s commitment to civic engagement and policy action at a crucial moment in our nation,” said Cadogan.  “I grew up not only with an unwavering love for the game of basketball, but also a deep respect for the NBA’s history of player activism promoting racial and social justice.  Just as today’s grassroots movement for justice can trace its origins to the civil rights movement of the 1950s and ‘60s, this Coalition is rooted in the legacy forged by generations of NBA athletes, who for over sixty years have used their platforms to fight for civil rights and economic justice.  I’m honored to be joining the team and look forward to helping today’s players, coaches, league officials, and governors build on that rich tradition.”   Cadogan earned a Bachelor of Arts from Princeton University and received a Juris Doctor from Columbia Law School.  He currently serves as a board member for North Star College Preparatory Academy for Boys and for Community Change, both in Washington D.C.   The National Basketball Social Justice Coalition Board of Directors includes NBA players Carmelo Anthony, (Portland Trail Blazers), Avery Bradley (Houston Rockets), Sterling Brown (Houston Rockets), Donovan Mitchell (Utah Jazz) and Karl-Anthony Towns (Minnesota Timberwolves); NBA Team Governors Micky Arison (Miami Heat Managing General Partner), Steve Ballmer (L.A. Clippers Chairman), Clay Bennett (Oklahoma City Thunder Chairman), Marc Lasry (Milwaukee Bucks Governor), Vivek Ranadivé (Sacramento Kings Governor and Chairman); Coaches Lloyd Pierce and Doc Rivers (Philadelphia 76ers) as well as NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, NBPA Executive Director Michele Roberts and NBA Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum.   It was played successfully for the first time in international competition at the 2010 Youth Olympic Games in Singapore and since then has benefited from the launch of a yearly city-based FIBA 3x3 World Tour and national-team FIBA 3x3 World & Continental Cups. On 9 June 2017, 3x3 was added to the Olympic Program, starting from the Tokyo Games. Wilson is the Global Ball and Apparel Partner and Tissot the Official Timekeeper of FIBA 3x3. FIBA 3x3 events are played on Enlio floors with Wilson balls, Schelde backstops, and the Magic Sky canopy system. For further information about 3x3, visit fiba3x3.basketball, FIBA 3x3 accounts on Facebook, Instagram, Sina Weibo, Tencent, TikTok, Twitter, Youku , YouTube and Twitch or contact 3x3@fiba.basketball.          NBA AND NBPA ANNOUNCE COVID-19 TEST RESULTS NEW YORK, April 14, 2021 – Of the 488 players tested for COVID-19 since April 7, zero new players have returned a confirmed positive test.    Anyone who has returned a confirmed positive test, or has been identified as having been in close contact to an infected person, is isolated or quarantined until they are cleared under the rules established by the NBA and the Players Association in accordance with CDC guidance.  WNBA’s 25th REGULAR SEASON TIPS OFF MAY 14 WITH OPENING WEEKEND HIGHLIGHTED BY STAR-STUDDED MATCHUPS   –  All 12 Teams Begin Quest for WNBA Crown during Opening Weekend –   –  Tip-Off Weekend puts Spotlight on MVPs as Candace Parker makes Sky Debut vs. Elena Delle Donne and Mystics, and Breanna Stewart’s Storm hosts Aces and A’ja Wilson –    NEW YORK, April 13, 2021 – The WNBA today released its 2021 regular season game schedule with the league tipping off its landmark 25th season on Friday, May 14 with a weekend of action featuring all 12 teams. The league will unveil its complete television schedule in the upcoming weeks.   On the heels of the launch of the WNBA’s season-long 25th anniversary campaign, Count It , and the league’s new Wilson basketball and Nike uniform unveilings, attention will now be focused on the league’s brightest stars as they bring women’s professional basketball back to arenas with an opening weekend highlighted by star-studded matchups.  Count It signifies that the WNBA is not done “counting” achievements because there are many more to come as WNBA players continue to excel and defy expectations.    “As we tip-off this historic season with teams returning to play in their home markets, we celebrate the impact the WNBA has made on generations of young and diverse athletes and on sports and society since 1997,” said WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. “Together with our fans and partners, we look ahead to how the outstanding athletes of the WNBA will continue to provide the best women’s basketball in the world while also driving change, striving for justice and equality, and impacting future generations. In the game and beyond, we will continue to say, Count It, as a way to celebrate the WNBA’s impact not only on the game, but culture at large.”    The 2021 season officially gets underway on Friday, May 14 when Sabrina Ionescu, the No. 1 overall draft pick in 2020, and the New York Liberty begin their first full season at Barclays Center by hosting the Indiana Fever and Kelsey Mitchell, the WNBA’s sixth-leading scorer last season (7 p.m. ET). Other games on tap that evening include DeWanna Bonner and Jonquel Jones for the Connecticut Sun visiting the Atlanta Dream with newly acquired Odyssey Sims, Tianna Hawkins and Cheyenne Parker in the Dream’s debut at their new home, Gateway Center Arena @ College Park (7:30 p.m. ET), and the Minnesota Lynx with back-to-back rookie of the year winners Napheesa Collier and Crystal Dangerfield welcoming the Phoenix Mercury (9 p.m. ET).  In the nightcap, the Los Angeles Sparks led by Nneka Ogwumike will host 2020 season leading scorer Arike Ogunbowale and the Dallas Wings (10:30 p.m. ET), current owners of the Nos. 1, 2, 5 and 7 picks in the first round of the upcoming April 15 WNBA Draft presented by State Farm®.   Action continues the following day when the focus will be on a pair of games featuring four league MVPs.  The first matchup will see two-time league MVP Candace Parker make her debut with the Chicago Sky at Washington against former MVP Elena Delle Donne and the Mystics (1 p.m. ET). The spotlight then shifts to Seattle for a rematch of 2020 WNBA Finals participants, when reigning WNBA Finals MVP Breanna Stewart, 11-time All-Star selection Sue Bird and the defending champion Storm will receive their championship rings prior to hosting the Las Vegas Aces, led by 2020 regular-season MVP A’ja Wilson and with 6’8” Center Liz Cambage returning along with newly acquired All-Star Chelsea Gray (3 p.m. ET).    The WNBA caps off its opening weekend on Sunday, May 16, with two more games.  The action starts when the league’s all-time scoring leader, Diana Taurasi, and the Phoenix Mercury visit the Connecticut Sun (12 p.m. ET) and concludes with the New York Liberty playing at the Indiana Fever (2 p.m. ET).   Following an off-season of unprecedented player movement, some of the most anticipated action will feature stars taking the court against their former teams: Candace Parker and the Sky will host her former team, the Sparks, for a weekend series on Friday, May 28 (8 p.m. ET) and Sunday May 30 (6 p.m. ET).  The following Saturday, June 5, Parker will for the first time face the Sparks as a member of the visiting team when Chicago visits L.A. (3 p.m. ET). New York’s Natasha Howard, the WNBA’s 2019 Defensive Player of the Year and a two-time champion during her three seasons with Seattle, will meet her former team for the first time when the Storm visits Barclays Center on Wednesday, Aug. 18 (7 p.m. ET) and Friday, Aug. 20 (7 p.m. ET).  Howard will return to Seattle for the first time with the Liberty on Thursday, Sept. 2 (10 p.m. ET). Las Vegas and Chelsea Gray, a three-time All-Star during her tenure with the Sparks, will host her former team on Friday, May 21 (10:30 p.m. ET) and visit Los Angeles for consecutive games on Wednesday, June 30 (10:30 p.m.) and Friday, July 2 (10:30 p.m.) Kayla McBride, a three-time All-Star with Las Vegas, will lace them up against the Aces for the first time as a member of the Lynx on Friday, June 25 in Minnesota (8 p.m. ET) and make her return to Las Vegas on Friday, July 9 (10:30 p.m. ET).   Due to the ongoing pandemic and the Olympic break, instead of the originally planned 36 games, the 2021 regular season will see each team play 32 games – 16 at home and 16 on the road. Each team will play three games apiece versus 10 opponents, and two games – one home and one away – against one team from the opposite conference. The regular season, currently scheduled to conclude on Sunday, Sept. 19 and be followed by a traditional playoffs and Finals format, will include a break from July 15 through Aug. 11. The schedule also incorporates steps to reduce the number of trips teams take, including the use of a “series” model whereby, in some instances a team is scheduled to play twice in one market, with those games being scheduled consecutively.    Information on fan attendance during the 2021 WNBA season will be provided by individual teams in conjunction with league and federal, state and local health and safety protocols. Additionally, the WNBA recognizes that it may be necessary to postpone or cancel some games due to the pandemic and has, where possible, built flexibility into the schedule and is prepared to adjust as necessary.   Select elements for the WNBA’s historic 25th season include the inaugural Commissioner’s Cup, the WNBA All-Star Game, selection of The W25, the greatest game-changing players since the league’s inception in 1997, and the unveiling over the second half of the season and playoffs of the WNBA’s 25 Greatest Moments ranked from No. 25 through No. 1. Details on these season elements will be forthcoming.    BROOKLYN AT MINNESOTA GAME RESCHEDULED   NEW YORK, April 13, 2021 – The National Basketball Association announced today that yesterday’s game between the Brooklyn Nets and the Minnesota Timberwolves, which was postponed, has been rescheduled for this afternoon at 3 p.m. CT at Target Center.  After consulting with both teams as well as local and state officials, the decision was made to reschedule the game today.    BROOKLYN AT MINNESOTA POSTPONED   NEW YORK, April 12, 2021 – The National Basketball Association announced today that in light of the tragic events in the Minneapolis area yesterday, tonight’s game between the Brooklyn Nets and the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center has been postponed.  The decision to postpone was made by the NBA after consultation with the Timberwolves organization and local and state officials.    Our thoughts remain with the family and friends of Daunte Wright during this difficult time. SACRAMENTO’S DE'AARON FOX FINED   NEW YORK, April 12, 2021 – Sacramento Kings guard De'Aaron Fox has been fined $20,000 for public criticism of the officiating, it was announced today by Kiki VanDeWeghe, Executive Vice President, Basketball Operations.   Fox made his comments to the media following the Kings’ 128-112 loss to the Utah Jazz on April 10 at Vivint Arena.   JR. NBA BRINGS TOGETHER 18 YOUTH ATHLETES FROM ACROSS THE U.S. TO FORM FIRST-EVER JR. NBA COURT OF LEADERS   – Newly-Launched Development and Mentorship Program to Provide Resources and Platform to Champion the Next Generation of Leaders –   – Minnesota Lynx’s Napheesa Collier and Memphis Grizzlies’ Jaren Jackson Jr. to Serve as Jr. NBA Court of Leaders Co-Chairs –   NEW YORK, April 12, 2021 – The National Basketball Association (NBA) today announced the formation of Jr. NBA Court of Leaders, a youth leadership council comprised of 18 15- and 16-year-old basketball players from across the U.S.  Launched in conjunction with the sixth annual Jr. NBA Week (April 11-17), Jr. NBA Court of Leaders aims to empower promising young men and women by providing resources to further develop as leaders and a platform to amplify their voices within their communities and across the youth basketball landscape.   The youth-led council will be comprised of eight boys and 10 girls from diverse backgrounds and communities across the country who demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities at the 2018 and 2019 Jr. NBA Global Championship and have continued to distinguish themselves on- and off-the-court since those events.  Jr. NBA Court of Leaders will be co-chaired by the Minnesota Lynx’s Napheesa Collier and Memphis Grizzlies’ Jaren Jackson Jr. who have previously worked with youth athletes and supported the league’s basketball development programming as Jr. NBA ambassadors.   Jr. NBA Court of Leaders members will participate in personal development programming focused on topics including leadership, decision-making, mental wellness and civic engagement, and convene monthly for webinars and workshops featuring guest speakers to broaden their understanding of issues related to social justice, gender equality and career opportunities in the sports industry.  The young men and women will also meet with the NBA’s youth basketball development team on a quarterly basis to offer insights on improving the youth basketball experience and enhancing Jr. NBA programs and events to meet young players’ evolving needs.  The group will also collaborate on an annual social responsibility project to positively impact their communities.   “I remember being in the same position as these young girls and boys not long ago, trying to realize my potential as a player and find my voice to inspire those around me,” said Collier. “I’m excited to get to know all of the Jr. NBA Court of Leaders members and help advance their personal development and community impact.”   "It's an awesome thing to see the Jr. NBA providing a platform to reward and empower young athletes who have displayed exceptional passion, leadership and work ethic,” said Jackson Jr. “The basketball space needs more young voices advocating for their peers and the future of the sport, and I look forward to supporting the Jr. NBA Court of Leaders as they create positive change on the court and in their communities.”   Each council member has been assigned a mentor from across the NBA, WNBA, NBA G League and NBA 2K League who will meet with their mentee regularly to guide their development and introduce them to ways they can be connected with sports beyond the court through careers in digital media, marketing, community engagement, youth basketball development and business operations, among other areas.     Members of the Jr. NBA Court of Leaders will be recognized in their local markets during the sixth annual Jr. NBA Week from April 11-17 as the NBA, its teams and players build on their ongoing commitment to teaching boys and girls the fundamental skills and core values of the game. Throughout the week, all 30 NBA teams will host virtual events and programming for players, parents, coaches and referees.    Jr. NBA Court of Leaders participants will be selected on an annual basis and a new group will be announced at the Jr. NBA Global Championship each August beginning in 2022. The inaugural Jr. NBA Court of Leaders includes:   Boys Royal Brown (N.Y.) Kanaan Carlyle (Ga.) Amani Hansberry (Md.) Lebbeus “LT” Overton (Ga.) Grant Stubblefield (Kan.) Quinton Webb (Calif.) Curtis Williams (Mich.) Aidan Wing (Kan.)               Girls Jadyn Donovan (Md.) Kendall Dudley (Va.) Mackenzie Nelson (Conn.) S’Mya Nichols (Kan.) Courtney Ogden (Ga.) Malia Samuels (Wash.) Sumayah Sugapong (Calif.) D’Asia Thomas (Texas) Jada Williams (Mo.) Solé Williams (Ohio)   For more information about the Jr. NBA, fans can visit http://jr.nba.com/, download the Jr. NBA Coach app, and follow the Jr. NBA on Facebook (Facebook.com/jrnba), Instagram (@jrnba) and Twitter (@jrnba).