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.
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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 have also agreed to receive reminders,” added the league. “Any unvaccinated referee who is not exempt will not be eligible to referee matches.”
The league also forced staff in contact with players or referees during matches to be vaccinated on Friday, according to US media.
The directive, according to ESPN, which cites a note sent by the NBA on Friday, 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, again according to ESPN.
Broadcasters, photographers and security guards who work close to the field are also included in the directive, among others.
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.
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