NEW YORK (AP) — The NFL will reveal its 2020 regular-season schedule on Thursday night. While it is discussing contingencies for changes to the schedule due to the coronavirus pandemic, it currently is planning for a normal season. But just in case, Commissioner Roger Goodell has also sent a memo to teams for a ticket refund plan for canceled games or those held without fans.
UNDATED (AP) — More than $6 million has been raised by the governing bodies of tennis for a relief fund aimed at helping 800 players deal with the financial effects of the coronavirus pandemic. The WTA and ATP tours, the International Tennis Federation and the four Grand Slam tournaments formed the “Player Relief Programme.” The seven groups say the money will be divided evenly among women and men and will go to singles and doubles players. They also say the WTA and ATP will oversee the distribution of the money, based on eligibility requirements that will factor in rankings and past prize money.
PHILADELPHIA (AP) —Philadelphia 76ers general manager Elton Brand remains optimistic that injured guard Ben Simmons can return to play if the NBA season resumes. Simmons had been sidelined with nerve issues in his lower back when the NBA season shut down on March 11 because of the coronavirus pandemic. Simmons is allowed to rehabilitate at the 76ers’ practice facility in Camden, New Jersey, with other select players undergoing rehab.
LOS ANGELES (AP) — The ESPYS are shifting focus from honoring athletic accomplishments to celebrating acts of heroism and humanitarian aid during the coronavirus pandemic. ESPN says its annual awards show will air June 21, about a month earlier than its usual July date. Comedian Tracy Morgan hosted last year’s show in its longtime home of Los Angeles. Awards named for Muhammad Ali and Billie Jean King are usually given out at a separate show the night before but will be added to The ESPYs telecast this year.
INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Speedway High School will hold this year’s graduation ceremony at the nearby Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Speedway officials agreed to host the event. The historic 2.5-mile oval just a short stroll from the high school has an estimated 235,000 permanent seats — and more than enough space to safely social distance. Details are still being worked out for the May 30 event.