Advertisement

Kyrie Irving reportedly allowed to practice with Nets, but still can't play home games after ruling

Brooklyn Nets guard Kyrie Irving was reportedly cleared to practice with the team after a New York City ruling Friday, according to Shams Charania of The Athletic

The city determined the team's practice facility was a private office building, paving the way for Irving to practice with the team. Irving, however, is still ineligible to play in home games at the Barclays Center until he gets vaccinated for COVID-19.

Prior to Friday's ruling, Irving was not allowed to practice with the team due to his vaccination status. Irving has not received the COVID-19 vaccination. New York City requires "proof of at least one dose of vaccination for all workers and individuals in indoor entertainment and performing arts venues." Irving has not commented on his vaccination status publicly, saying he wanted to "keep that stuff private."

Kyrie Irving could lose millions over vaccination status

Irving risks losing a significant chunk of change if he refuses to get vaccinated the entire season. Irving is expected to lose over $380,000 for each game he misses due to being unvaccinated. If Irving misses all 41 of the Nets' home games, he would miss out on over $15 million.

The Nets will play their first home game of the preseason Friday night. Irving was ruled "ineligible to play" by the Nets due to his vaccination status.

It will be the first game Irving misses this season due to being unvaccinated.

Kyrie Irving with the Nets.
Kyrie Irving can take part in Nets practice, but still can't play in home games. (Photo by Steven Ryan /Getty Images)