The NBA has made some amendments its COVID-19 protocols, including a requirement that all active players who are dressed to play must wear a face mask until they enter the game, Shams Charania of The Athletic tweets.
That rule will go into effect on Tuesday. Additionally, all players, coaches and staffers in Tiers 1 and 2 must wear a mask when outside the team setting and indoors.
After leaving the court, active players are strongly recommended to wear mask in the bench area. The requirement resets at halftime — players not in the game at the start of second half must don a mask until they enter. Inactive players remain required to wear mask for the entire game, Charania adds.
The tightening of restrictions comes at a time when multiple teams are dealing with coronavirus issues to either players or staffers. In-game protocols are particularly important, as the league is intent on preventing the possibility of having to postpone games due to multiple positive tests and contact tracing.
Not surprising given the almost daily occurrence of positive tests which is not sustainable and will probably accelerate. The 3rd wave that we are in is going to be a challenge for the NBA and NFL.
Too late for KD ….