NEW YORK: The NBA said Saturday that it will require Covid-19 vaccinations for all referee working games in the 2021/22 season.
The league said in a statement that the requirement has been agreed with the National Basketball Referees Association. It allows some exceptions for religious or medical reasons.
“The referees also agreed to take all recommended boosters,” said the league. “Any referee who cannot be vaccinated and is not exempted will be excluded from working games.”
The announcement comes a day after several U.S. media outlets reported that the NBA had informed teams that all employees who work in close proximity to players or referees during games must be fully vaccinated against Covid-19.
Citing a memo the NBA sent the teams on Friday, ESPN said the policy specifically covers coaches, front office members and coaches, but does not require all players to be vaccinated. ”
The league-wide vaccination of players is the subject of negotiations with the National Basketball Players Association.
According to ESPN, the league has set a deadline of October 1 for team staff to be fully vaccinated.
The policy includes broadcasters, photographers, and security guards working near the court, along with dressing room staff, medical staff, equipment managers, and food and beverage retailers and vendors.
The regular season kicks off October 19 when reigning champion Milwaukee Bucks receives the Brooklyn Nets and the Golden State Warriors take on the Los Angeles Lakers in a blockbuster opening night double headed ball.
