The NBA also has several stars in COVID-19 protocols right now, including the Milwaukee Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Brooklyn Nets’ James Harden. As of Wednesday afternoon, 33 players — about 6.5% of the league — were in the protocols, with 17 of those playing for either Chicago or Brooklyn.
“Like the rest of the country, and as was predicted by our infectious disease specialists, we have seen an increase of cases around the league,” NBA spokesman Mike Bass said Wednesday, adding that the league will continue to be guided by science and data and cooperate with the Players Association.
The NFL is perhaps fortunate in that most of its games are played outdoors, so there’s less risk for fans. But the league is having its worst outbreak in terms of players on the reserve/COVID list: Eighty-eight tested positive Monday and Tuesday, and several more were added Wednesday including eight on the Washington Football Team. The L.A. Rams have 16 on the list.
It’s a small percentage for a league with about 2,200 players between active rosters, injured reserves and practice squads. But omicron could cause that to rise quickly.
New York Giants coach Joe Judge said his players are now wearing masks indoors and are spaced out more in meetings. “Anyone who’s been involved in any kind of a close contact or test at this point has either been removed or separated from the team, and they’re in virtual meetings,” Judge said.
The NFL Players Association has raised alarms for months about the league moving from daily to weekly testing, which hampers detection of outbreaks.
Chin-Hong of UCSF said they’re right to be concerned and the NFL should rethink the policy. “(Testing) once a week is so 2020,” he said. “We have the technology to do it several times a day.”
While all these leagues cope with COVID-19 outbreaks amid variants, it’s important to remember that being vaccinated and taking other preventative measures are essential steps in preventing any serious health risks. Make sure you’re up-to-date on your vaccinations, and if not, consult your doctor!
New York Giants coach Joe Judge said his players are now wearing masks indoors and are spaced out more in meetings. “Anyone who’s been involved in any kind of a close contact or test at this point has either been removed or separated from the team, and they’re in virtual meetings,” Judge said.
