Gearing up for the upcoming NBA 2021-22 season, sources state that the local jurisdictions of New York and San Francisco are looking to rev up safety protocols in relation to the coronavirus.
As reported by NBA Insider Shams Charania of The Athletic and Stadium, players of certain home markets are required to be vaccinated in order to enter the practice facilities or arenas. Those who have religious or medical reasons may be exempted from the vaccination as well as visiting teams. Franchises who may hold these terms are currently the Brooklyn Nets, New York Knicks and Golden State Warriors.
The restriction will also apply to any team staff, arena personnel, referees and anyone who would and need to interact with the players. Additionally, fans attending games and seated 15 feet from the court should be vaccinated or present proof of a negative COVID-19 test as the league expects arenas to be at full capacity within the new season.
Final decisions on vaccination requirements will still have to be made by the NBPA rather than the NBA. Local authorities of certain cities such as New York and San Francisco may enforce said rules, but this may cause controversy with players who are opposed to getting vaccinated.
This follows local governmental policies, meaning unvaccinated players on the Nets, Knicks and Warriors are not allowed to play in home games. Visiting players are exempt from the vaccination requirements in NYC and SF. https://t.co/fPePW722Og
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) September 1, 2021
The following NBA personnel must be fully vaccinated in order to conduct in-person interactions with players and refs: Coaching staff, medical/performance staff, equipment, front office, player development, team/arena security, PR, social media, scorer’s table, attendants. https://t.co/E2EWbrTBkG
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) August 27, 2021
Elsewhere in the NBA, Rajon Rondo rejoins the Los Angeles Lakers on a 1-year deal.
