WNBA 2020 season: Natasha Cloud, LaToya Sanders, Jonquel Jones opt out of playing

CNN — The WNBA is planning to hold the 2020 season at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, starting in July – but not all players will be there. Cloud, Sanders and Jones join Atlanta Dream guard Renee Montgomery – who said she intends to sit out the season to help continue the fight for social justice reform in the US – in not playing. Although I love playing this game, I believe there are much more important things to be thinking about in this moment.” In January, before it was known the coronavirus pandemic would disrupt the season schedule, Minnesota Lynx superstar Maya Moore said she would sit out a second consecutive season to continue to fight for criminal justice reform. Our calling right now is to use our God-given platforms, to use our voices and to collectively come together for something greater than all of ourselves combined.” As for Cloud’s teammate Sanders: “This was not an easy choice to make, but after much thought and conversation I do believe it is what’s best for my health and family.” “I wish my teammates and the entire Mystics family the best this season and I will continue to watch and support them,” said Sanders. Jones, in a press release through the Sun, said she “decided to forego the upcoming WNBA season and use this time to focus on personal, social, and familial growth.” “This was one of the toughest decisions I’ve made but the resurgence and unknown aspects of Covid-19 have raised serious health concerns that I do not feel comfortable competing in,” Jones said.