The health risks associated with COVID-19 and travel have led to Australian Opals star Bec Allen opting out of the 2020 WNBA season.
The New York Liberty sharpshooter explained the decision was a tough one to make.
“This has absolutely been one of the toughest decisions, but after much thought and discussions, I have decided to opt out of the 2020 season in Florida,” said Allen in the official release. “The uncertainty of the COVID-19 crisis and the logistical health risks related to travel have led me to conclude that it’s best if I not play in the WNBA this year.
I would like to thank the Liberty for their support and understanding. I’ll certainly miss all my teammates, staff and fans this year. I’ll be cheering loud from Australia and I look forward to getting back on the court in 2021.”
In 2019, Allen enjoyed her best WNBA season to date. The wing set career-high’s in points, rebounds, assists and blocks in averaging 7.2 points, 2.5 rebounds in her fifth season with the Liberty. The WNBA recently announced that the 2020 season will tip-off in July with a 22 regular-season game schedule followed by a traditional playoff format at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida.
“Rebecca is a consummate professional and a key factor to the team’s new style of play,” said Liberty General Manager Jonathan Kolb. “We understand that these decisions are never easy and, while she will certainly be missed this season, we fully support her decision to do what is best for her and her family.”
Allen also recently signed to play with Valencia in Spain during the European season. The Victorian played the last two seasons with Polish side Arka Gdynia in the prestigious EuroLeague Women competition, where she delivered 14.1 points, 5.3 rebounds and 1.2 assists per game. The 2018 FIBA World Cup silver medalist would guide Gdynia to an unbeaten 21-0 record in the Polish league, eventually being named 2020 champions despite the season coming to a premature end due to COVID-19. In averaging 14.1 points, 6.2 rebounds and 2.4 assists per game, Allen was also named the Polish league MVP.
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