MIES (Switzerland) - In celebration of World Health Day 2020, FIBA is calling for the global basketball community to show their appreciation for health workers around the world by staying at home to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis said: "Now more than ever, the basketball community must show its appreciation for doctors, nurses and all health workers all over the world. The best way we can do this during the current crisis is to listen to the advice we have been given and to stay at home.

"The sacrifices we have seen health professionals make in response to COVID-19 are truly astonishing and I am proud that two FIBA referees, Silvia Marziali and Guido Giovannetti, among many other members of the basketball community, have been a key part of this as doctors on the front line in Italy.

"As we celebrate World Health Day, I urge you to play your part by making the decision to stay at home. This is the most powerful way to show health workers that we are eternally grateful for everything they do."

Whilst staying at home is crucial during the pandemic, FIBA encourages the basketball community to stay as engaged with sport as much as possible, either through basketball-related or other fitness activity. FIBA is also posting a wide selection of historical content and highlights on its YouTube channel and other social media platforms for fans to enjoy at home.

World Health Day is celebrated every year on April 7 to raise awareness of the critical role of health workers in keeping the world healthy. It is held under the patronage of the World Health Organisation (WHO), with this year focusing on the vital work of nurses and midwives. In 1948, the WHO held the First World Health Assembly, where it was agreed that April 7 of each year, with effect from 1950, would be World Health Day.

FIBA