Wizards resume workouts in D.C. practice facility for first time since pandemic

The Washington Wizards on Friday held their first individual, voluntary workouts at MedStar Wizards Performance Center since the NBA season was suspended.

The Wizards are one of the last NBA teams able to open their practice facility. Coach Scott Brooks said in an interview earlier this month that the team planned to open the facility May 15, and it’s unclear what contributed to the delay. The District only began Phase 1 of its reopening plan on Friday.

“Players began workouts today while strictly following all guidelines from local D.C. health officials and rules and restrictions set forth by the NBA,” the team said in a press release. “The MedStar Wizards Performance Center will remain closed to the general staffs of the Wizards, Mystics and Go-Go until local guidelines allow for re-opening.”

Among the health protocols the Wizards have put in place: “Players will wear masks while in the building other than when participating in on-court sessions,” and “team medical staff will administer symptom and temperature checks prior to anyone entering the facility.”

Also on Friday, D.C. United players went to Leesburg, Virginia, to hold their first individual workouts since the Major League Soccer season was suspended, and the District reportedly approved their request to begin practicing at Audi Field again. Meanwhile, the Washington Capitals are preparing their practice facility to reopen when the NHL moves into Phase 2 of its reopening plan, allowing for small-group on-ice workouts.