Latest plans of leagues, events in wake of coronavirus pandemic

NBA

The league announced Wednesday night that it has suspended its season because of Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert’s positive test for coronavirus. The NBA reportedly will be shut down for at least 30 days. Mavericks owner Mark Cuban speculated earlier Thursday that it may take at least 60 days for the virus to run its course and for the NBA to consider resuming the 2019-20 season.

Gobert, a 2020 All-Star and two-time reigning Defensive Player of the Year, had previously been mocking the hysteria over the illness. Gobert apologized on Twitter on Thursdsay, writing: "I will do whatever I can to support using my experience as way to educate others and prevent the spread of this virus."

NFL

The NFL has canceled its annual spring meeting, scheduled to take place in Palm Beach, Florida, March 29-April 1. Free agency is scheduled to begin officially on Wednesday. The NFL Draft in Las Vegas next month is expected to be held without fans, but free agency will start as scheduled Wednesday.

NHL

After a call with its board of governors, the NHL has temporarily suspended the 2019-20 season. In a press release, the league explained its decision:

The AHL and CHL followed the NHL’s lead and suspended the minor league season, meaning no high-level professional hockey will take place in North America for the time being.

College Basketball

On Thursday, the NCAA announced its decision to cancel both the men's and women's NCAA Tournaments, along with all remaining winter and spring championships.

This comes on the heels of the NCAA announcing no fans would be permitted to attend tournament games. After several universities and conferences canceled their athletic activities, the NCAA finally followed suit.

MLS

Major League Soccer announced Thursday it will suspend its season for 30 days.

XFL

The XFL is suspending play due to the outbreak of COVID-19, sources. The league will not play any more games in the 2020 season, but is confident it will return for the 2021 campaign. The XFL, which has played half of a 10-week schedule, was scheduled to play a title game on April 26.