The Covid-19 vaccine mandatory for referees in the NBA

NBA referees will need to be vaccinated against Covid-19 to officiate during the 2021-2022 season, the North American Basketball League announced on Saturday.

In a statement, the NBA said the decision was taken following an agreement with the NBA Referees Union (NRBA) and that exceptions for medical or religious reasons would be possible.

« The referees also agreed to be administered reminders, added the league. Any unvaccinated referee who is not exempt will not be eligible to referee matches. « 

Staff in contact with players should also be vaccinated

According to various American media, on Friday, the league also forced staff in contact with players or referees during matches to be vaccinated. ESPN, which cites a note sent by the NBA, reports that the directive would specifically include coaches, staff and physical trainers without however requiring players to be vaccinated, which must be negotiated with the players’ union (NBPA).

Regarding staff in contact with the players, the deadline to be fully vaccinated would be October 1, according to ESPN. Broadcasters, photographers and security guards who work close to the field are also included in the directive.

The regular season begins on October 19, with the opening game in the East, the duel between the defending champions Milwaukee Bucks and the Brooklyn Nets, and another clash between the Golden State Warriors and the Los Angeles Lakers. West.