Kyrie Irving is, once again, one of the hottest topics around the NBA. The Brooklyn Nets superstar is not strange to controversy, and this time, his vaccination status has gotten a lot of attention.
Irving is yet to get the COVID-19 vaccination, which is mandatory if he aspires to play home games with the Nets. Just like other players like Andrew Wiggins or Jonathan Isaac, Kyrie has refused to take the shot. This could create problems for him and his team in a season where they’re seen as title favorites.
This decision already prevented Irving from attending the Nets media day today. Instead, he addressed media members via Zoom, where several reporters asked about his vaccination status.
Kyrie refused to respond to these questions, asking reporters to ‘respect his privacy,’ explaining that more information will come later when things are clear for him, the Nets, and New York authorities.
“I appreciate the question, but I’d like to keep that stuff private.”
Kyrie Irving on his vaccination status: "I appreciate the question, but I'd like to keep that stuff private."
— Keith Smith (@KeithSmithNBA) September 27, 2021
When somebody asked the same question, Kyrie revealed that this isn’t the moment to talk about it.
“Again, please respect my privacy. Everything will be released in due time when all of this is cleared up.”
Kyrie Irving on if he expects to play in home games this season:
"Everything will be released at a due date once we get this cleared up. As of right now, please respect my privacy." pic.twitter.com/W7fqrFkWY5
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) September 27, 2021
Still, Kyrie is fired up to see Nets fans back at the Barclays Center after one year with restrictions, where the NBA had to maneuver to keep things going amid a global pandemic.
“I’m excited…The last thing I wanted to create was this hoopla and distractions. I’m continuously growing and learning from others…It won’t be easy, but I feel like we have a recipe for success.”
Asked if he's excited to play in front of the Brooklyn fans, Kyrie Irving says "I'm excited…The last thing I wanted to create was this hoopla and distractions. I'm continuously growing and learning from others…It won't be easy, but I feel like we have a recipe for success."
— Keith Smith (@KeithSmithNBA) September 27, 2021
This season is very important for the Nets, as they aspire to win it all following a disappointing 2020/21 campaign. If Kyrie remains healthy and out of trouble, they will have a big chance to become NBA champions with him, James Harden, and Kevin Durant leading the way.
However, they first need to figure this out and find a solution before the start of the season.
