NBA Investigates Irving Party Video Of Health Protocol Violation

JAKARTA - A video showing Brooklyn Nets star Kyrie Irving at a party is being investigated by the NBA regarding the COVID-19 safety breach.

"We are aware of the video on social media featuring Kyrie Irving at a family gathering," said the Nets general manager, Sean Marks, in a statement quoted by Antara by AFP on Wednesday, January 13.

"We are studying the situation (pictured on the video) with Kyrie and the NBA to determine compliance with health and safety protocols."

The images in the video show Irving without a mask attending a birthday party, which could be a violation of NBA health and safety protocol, which prohibits players from joining gatherings of more than 15 people, as well as going to clubs and bars.

Kyrie Irving himself has missed the fourth straight match on Tuesday.

According to Marks, Irving's absence from the team has been announced for personal reasons, and the playmaker has no definite date to return to play.

"Kyrie remains away from the team for personal reasons," said Marks, a former midfielder from New Zealand who won the NBA title with San Antonio in 2005.

"The date of his return has not yet been determined. Meanwhile, we will continue to focus on our organizational goals.

"Kyrie will have the opportunity to overcome his absence when he is ready to do so."

After missing a fourth straight game on Tuesday when the Nets face Denver, Irving is also expected to miss Wednesday's game against New York and Saturday's game against Orlando.