Topline
Thursday's announcement by the Dallas Mavericks that all fans must show proof of Covid-19 vaccine or a negative test to be allowed to see games at American Airlines Center, joins a growing number of NBA teams encouraging their fans to get vaccinated.
Before Game 6 of a NBA playoff series, fans and players stood for the national anthem in Dallas. It was played between the [+] Los Angeles Clippers (Dallas) and the Dallas Mavericks (Dallas), June 4, 2021. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth) ASSOCIATED PRESS
The Key Facts
According to multiple reports, the Mavericks sent an email to season-ticket holders stating that either proof of complete Covid vaccinations or a negative test result within 48 hours would be required to gain admission. The Mavericks join other teams that have Covid mandates: the New York Knicks and Brooklyn Nets as well as the Golden State Warriors and Golden State Warriors will require fans to get vaccines to attend games. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers, Boston Celtics and Toronto Raptors, and the New Orleans Pelicans, will require proof of vaccination or a recent negative result. Fans under 12 years old who are not seated within 15 feet from the court will be allowed to attend, but all other fans will need to wear masks.
What we don't know
It is unclear if or how these rules will be complied with Gov. Greg Abbott's executive orders prohibiting private businesses from requiring proof of vaccination for customers. According to the order, businesses that require vaccinations for entry risk being denied government contracts. Forbes reached out to Abbott's office, American Airlines Center, and Mavericks for comment, but they did not immediately respond.
Important Background
While the NBA allows teams to create their own Covid guidelines, the league requires that all coaches and staff get vaccinated. After some high-profile players raised concerns about vaccine safety, the league has allowed players to not be required to get vaccinated. The league announced Wednesday that all players who are based in New York or San Francisco will need to be vaccinated to participate in home games this season. This is due to local mandates. Local mandates may force unvaccinated players to miss games, which could potentially result in players losing more than $15 million in salary. According to the NBA, more than 90% of its members have been vaccinated.
Big Number
60.7% According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, this is how many people in Dallas County have been fully vaccinated against Covid-19.
Continue reading
The Dallas Morning News reports that the Mavericks will require proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative test to be allowed to watch home games for their fans (The Dallas Morning News).
According to Forbes, unvaccinated NBA players will lose their salary for games they miss due to local mandates (Forbes).
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