Section 8: Safety Considerations
Concussion Protocol
The WNBA maintains a comprehensive concussion management program developed in collaboration with the Women's National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA). The protocol includes the following key elements:
- Baseline testing: All players undergo baseline neurocognitive testing (ImPACT or equivalent) during the preseason, providing a reference point if a concussion is suspected during the season.
- In-game evaluation: If a player exhibits signs of a concussion (loss of consciousness, disorientation, balance problems, blank stare, slow response), she is immediately removed from the game for evaluation by the team physician.
- No same-day return: A player diagnosed with a concussion may not return to play in the same game.
- Return-to-play protocol: The player must complete a graduated, multi-step return-to-participation process supervised by the team physician and reviewed by an independent concussion specialist before being cleared to play.
- Independent specialists: The WNBA's medical advisors may flag players for evaluation and must approve return-to-play clearance.
Replay and Video Review
The WNBA uses the NBA Replay Center in Secaucus, New Jersey for instant replay support. The Replay Center assists on-court referees with specific reviewable matters, including:
- Whether a shot was a two-pointer or a three-pointer (shooter's foot on the line)
- Whether a shot was released before the shot clock or game clock expired
- Flagrant foul review (determining if contact was unnecessary, excessive, or both)
- Out-of-bounds plays in the closing stretch of the fourth quarter and overtime
- Goaltending and basket interference calls
- Clock malfunctions and correct time determinations
- Coach's Challenge reviews (each team receives one challenge per game to contest certain calls)
Coach's Challenge
Each team is entitled to one Coach's Challenge per game. A coach may challenge a personal foul called on her team, a goaltending or basket interference call, or an out-of-bounds call. To initiate a challenge, the team must have at least one timeout remaining. If the challenge is successful (the call is overturned), the team retains its timeout; if unsuccessful, the team is charged a timeout.
Player Safety on the Court
- Stanchion padding: The basket support stanchion (pole) is padded to reduce injury risk from player collisions
- Courtside seating: A minimum buffer distance is maintained between the court boundary and the first row of spectator seating to provide a safety zone for players diving for loose balls
- Wet spot protocol: Dedicated court attendants immediately dry any wet spots on the court caused by condensation, spills, or perspiration to prevent slipping injuries
- Camera and equipment placement: Courtside cameras, media personnel, and equipment must be positioned to minimize collision risk with players moving at high speed
Anti-Fighting Rules
- Any player who leaves the bench area during an altercation on the court is subject to automatic suspension and fine, even if she does not participate in the altercation
- Players involved in fighting are subject to ejection, fines, and suspension from subsequent games
- The league office reviews all ejections, flagrant fouls, and on-court altercations after the game and may impose additional discipline
Health and Wellness Protocols
- Medical staff: Each team must have a certified athletic trainer and team physician present at all games and practices
- Cardiac screening: All players undergo comprehensive cardiovascular screening as part of their annual physical examination
- Mental health: The WNBA and WNBPA provide confidential mental health and wellness resources to all players, including licensed psychologists and counselors
- Anti-doping: The WNBA Anti-Drug Program includes random testing for performance-enhancing drugs, drugs of abuse, and diuretics/masking agents during the season and offseason
- Maternity and family planning: The 2020 collective bargaining agreement and subsequent updates expanded paid maternity leave, child-care stipends, and family planning benefits for players