WNBA finalizing plan for shortened season to begin in July

The WNBA is preparing to begin its season in late July with teams congregating at the IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, the league announced Monday.

The WNBA usually begins play in May and culminates in the fall, but like most professional sports leagues in the United States, its plans went awry when the coronavirus pandemic struck. There's still work to be done, especially when it comes to the finer details surrounding health and safety protocols, but it looks like the league will get in a shortened, fan-less season.

While a normal season consists of 36 regular games, this one would have just 22 before the normal playoff format begins. The good news is, under the league's plan, players will receive their full salaries, even if those considered high-risk for the virus decide not to play.

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WNBA Players' Association Director Terri Jackson said players are confident the league will figure out how to conduct everything safely, and all players will hop on a phone call with physicians to discuss guidelines next week. Read more from The Associated Press at Fox Sports.