New York City's Vaccine Mandate Could Impact Nets Season, As Irving Reportedly Not Getting Shot
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- A vaccination controversy in the NBA involves one of the league's biggest stars and New York City's regulations.
This all comes as the new season is just around the corner, starting with Monday's Media Day.
Brooklyn Nets star Kyrie Irving's vaccination status is officially unconfirmed, but while every Nets player was in Brooklyn at the Media Day, Kyrie was noticeably absent - at least in person.
As CBS2's Steve Overmyer reports, Irving spent Media Day away from his teammates. New York City requires vaccinations for any indoor activities. Irving was given ample opportunity to explain his absence.
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"Obviously, living in this public sphere, there's a lot of questions about what's happening in the 'World of Kyrie' and I would love to keep that private," Irving said.
The NBA says they are 90% vaccinated, though they haven't mandated vaccines. Instead, they've left it up to each city's laws. By law, Irving wouldn't be able to participate in any home games unless he gets vaccinated. He faced multiple questions about the vaccine, and dodged every one.
"I would like to keep all that private. Please, please just respect my privacy," Irving said.
Irving was even asked why he wouldn't want to clear up the confusion around his stance on vaccines.
"Please respect my privacy. Next question," he said.
Nobody on the Nets averaged more points per game than Kyrie Irving, and according to Las Vegas, they're the favorites to win the NBA title this season. If he doesn't get vaccinated, he won't be able to play in any of the team's home games.
"It's on Kyrie. And its his personal decision. What he does is not on us to speculate what will happen. But we trust in Kyrie, and I expect us to have our whole team at some point," said Kevin Durant.
"I'll be there every day no matter what. Just be present for my teammates," Irving said.
The Nets will start camp in California this week, and won't be back in Brooklyn until Oct. 8.