Denver Nuggets manager Michael Malone chased the NBA on Friday, outlining its policy of not allowing coaches to bring family into the “criminal in nature” bubble.
Speaking to reporters ahead of Saturday’s game 2 against the LA Clippers, Malone answered a different question about the bubble by saying he needed to get something off his chest.
“First, I’ll say something that has nothing to do with your question,” he said. “Today is day 60. Okay? The guys who came here on July 7 and we weren’t many because we were devastated by COVID. This is the original crew. This is day number 60. The reason I bring this it’s because the players have their families here, which they deserve, which is the right thing to do. Referees can bring a guest, which is great for referees. Coaches, coaches can’t bring anyone. “
The National Basketball Players Association and the National Basketball Referees Association have collectively negotiated a range of issues and services to encourage their members to participate in the championship resumption in Orlando, Florida. One of these was the inclusion of family members and guests.
Before the Nuggets headed for the bubble, Malone had mentioned his frustration at not allowing the family to take the coaches, saying he hoped the league would change the protocol. If the Nuggets made it to the NBA Finals, it would have been more than 90 days without seeing family for coaches.
“I say shame on you NBA,” said Malone, who is married with two daughters. “It’s crazy. I miss my family. And I think I speak for myself, I speak for my coaches and probably for all the coaches down here. Sixty days and not having access and having the privilege of having my family here is to criminal nature, and it shouldn’t be at all. So I wanted to get it off my chest. “
Miami Heat manager Erik Spoelstra said ahead of Friday’s game 3 against the Milwaukee Bucks that the coaches association has petitioned the league to allow coaches’ families to be in the bubble, but understands the challenges involved in allowing more guests.
“The entire association of coaches spoke to the league. [Dallas Mavericks coach] Rick Carlisle has led many of these discussions, “Spoelstra said.” They haven’t closed the door completely, absolutely, 100%, and I understand that. These are not easy decisions and this is not a normal period in our history. This is unprecedented. You can’t compare it to anything else.
“… So I get that part, those aren’t easy decisions the league has to make. There’s a human side we just want them to consider. And it’s been a long time away from our families, that it’s not something you can prepare for. We’re not in the military. We don’t have a background in that. I really miss my family. These are extraordinary times and this is an extraordinary opportunity here in this bubble. “
ESPN’s Nick Friedell contributed to this report.
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