Matt Johnson
Brooklyn Nets star Kyrie Irving is returning to the court, receiving clearance from the Brooklyn Nets to play in road games and going against their decision in October.
Reports surfaced Monday that the Nets held renewed optimism for Irving to return during the 2021-’22 NBA season, but specifics weren’t provided on whether or not Irving got vaccinated or the organization changed its mind.
The Nets announced in October that Irving couldn’t play or practice with the team, a decision made with the All-Star point guard not allowed to play in home games due to New York City’s COVID-19 vaccination requirements. Now, per ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, the Nets are changing course.
According to Wojnarowski, the Nets are citing the turbulent NBA season and the sudden lack of availability of players as part of the reason for bringing Irving back. Importantly, per ESPN, the decision has full support from owner Joe Tsai, general manager Sean Marks, coach Steve Nash and key players like Kevin Durant.
Because the Nets practice in a privately owned facility, they will be allowed to have Irving partake in practices and he can suit up for any road games where vaccination requirements aren’t in place. The 29-year-old guard reportedly is still unvaccinated and there are no signs his status will change in the near future.
