The saga of whether or not Kyrie Irving can play in Brooklyn Nets home games is coming to an end.
According to multiple reports, New York City is adjusting its private-sector vaccine mandate to exempt athletes and entertainers within the workplace. They will be subject to the same classification as visiting players, who had been allowed to play even if unvaccinated. The change will take place on Thursday, meaning Irving will be able to play at home Sunday against Charlotte.
Kyrie Irving is eligible to make his home debut at Barclays Center on Sunday vs. the Charlotte Hornets, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. New NYC exemption for in-town athletes and performers will be effective immediately beginning Thursday.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) March 23, 2022
Initial reports had suggested that a rule change was likely before the playoffs, though at the time it was unclear what the timetable was.
Irving had been allowed to attend games as a spectator, but could not play. The bizarre double standard of that policy had been criticized by Kevin Durant, and pressure grew on New York mayor Eric Adams to adjust the policy.
Photo: Feb 1, 2020; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Brooklyn Nets guard Kyrie Irving (11) during the second half against the Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
