NBA security to prohibit hugs, handshakes among players

On Wednesday, a matchup between the Memphis Grizzlies and Portland Trail Blazers scheduled to occur at Portland's Moda Center became the 16th NBA game postponed due to COVID-19 issues since the season started on Dec. 22. Meanwhile, the Washington Wizards haven't played since a 128-107 win over the Phoenix Suns on Jan. 11 because of a coronavirus outbreak within their organization. 

The NBA is now taking a unique step in an attempt to prevent future outbreaks among players. 

ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski is reporting that the NBA will move security personnel into midcourt areas to remind players that they should not engage in hugs or handshakes with opponents. Per a memo obtained by ESPN, players are to remain on their half of the court during games and keep interactions to elbow or fist bumps. Extended postgame conversations among opposing players are also prohibited by the league's health and safety protocols. 

While these rules may seem silly to fans and also players, the NFL enforced similar mandates throughout the 2020 season and is now just two games and a couple of weeks away from completing Super Bowl LV on time, something that seemed nearly impossible when the Tennessee Titans and Baltimore Ravens both dealt with COVID-19 outbreaks during the fall.