Staff Reporter.
Andrew Wiggins will not be able to play in home games for the Golden State Warriors after the NBA rejected his request for a religious exemption from the Covid-19 vaccine.
San Francisco’s health rules require those aged 12 and over at large indoor events to have had the vaccine.
“The NBA has reviewed and denied Andrew Wiggins’ request for religious exemption from the San Francisco Department of Public Health’s order requiring COVID-19 vaccination for all participants age 12 and older at large indoor events,” the league said in a statement. “Wiggins will not be able to play in Warriors home games until he fulfills the city’s vaccination requirements.”
His side’s first home game of the regular season is on 21 October.
Back in March, Wiggins discussed his perspective on the COVID-19 vaccine.
“To each his own, really. Whoever wants to get it, can get it; whoever doesn’t want to get it, don’t get it,” said 26-year-old Wiggins in March.
“Right now, I’m not getting it, but it’s no knock on anyone else that’s getting it. I make my own decisions. But right now, I decided not to get it.”
He added: “I don’t really see myself getting it any time soon, unless I’m forced to somehow. Other than that, I’m good.”
Wiggins averaged 18.6 points and 4.9 rebounds last season — his first full campaign with the Golden State Warriors. The 26-year-old swingman shot a career-high 47.7 percent from the field and a personal-best 38.0 percent from 3-point range in 71 games (all starts).