“I knew the consequences, I wasn’t prepared for them” – Kyrie Irving on anti-vaccination stance and not playing for the Brooklyn Nets

Brooklyn Nets star defender Kyrie Irving has not played a game this season because of his decision not to get the COVID-19 vaccine.

But Brooklyn will soon see Irving in court.

Irving cleared the NBA’s health and safety protocols and began preparing for his return. His first playing opportunity could be January 5 at the Indiana Pacers.

When asked about his decision, Irving said:

“I knew the consequences, I wasn’t prepared for them.”

Here are the comments on this clip from the NBA on ESPN, posted to YouTube:

Irving’s comments come after Wednesday’s training session, his first since the Nets reversed their earlier decision and then after he cleared the protocols.

Kyrie Irving’s Vaccination Incident

Irving was under the impression that he was promised an exemption from competition without vaccinations. But because of New York City’s orders, Kyrie won’t be able to play any games in the city (at the New York Knicks or in Brooklyn) without being vaccinated.

The rift grew larger when Brooklyn decided not to let Irving play or practice. The Nets announced that they made the decision because they were concerned about the disruption of the team’s chemistry by a part-time player. Authorizations in New York City, San Francisco and Toronto would prevent Irving from playing in those cities.

Irving has missed 32 games so far this season.

A decision like this, pitting a team against their player, especially an opponent of Irving’s caliber, is never easy. The organization took the risk of making their star unhappy and fueling speculation that Irving could be trafficked.

Even when Irving goes out and James Harden missed the last four games while in protocols, Brooklyn (23-9) came in first place in the Eastern Conference.

Irving said he understands why Brooklyn made his decision.

Irving is an easy going person. He leaves his emotions to his play and tackles them with outstanding finishes. One can understand why he took such a lukewarm view of Brooklyn’s decision – he’s not the type of player to hold a grudge against his team and demand a trade.

Kyrie Irving’s Efforts on Brooklyn

Kyrie Irving averaged 26.9 points, 4.8 rebounds and 6.0 assists per game last season for the Brooklyn Nets. Such stats have been missed this season, and the Nets should be thrilled to get another star back.

Irving said he’s excited to be back:

Given the foul play Irving made last season, it makes sense why both he and his teammates are delighted to see him back. Brooklyn fans, like NBA fans, have been waiting patiently to see Irving again with a basketball in hand.

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January 5th could be a big day for the Brooklyn Nets.