Princewill Pius
Before stay-at-home orders were implemented across the nation, Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert joked about the severity of COVID-19 when he touched every microphone at a post-practice press conference on March 9, 2020. Two days later, Gobert became the first NBA player to test positive for coronavirus. In response, the NBA suspended its season and Gobert issued a public apology (per CNN).
“I want to thank everyone for the outpouring of concern and support over the last 24 hours,” Gobert said (via Instagram). “I have gone through so many emotions since learning of my diagnosis…mostly fear, anxiety, and embarrassment. The first and most important thing is I would like to publicly apologize to the people that I may have endangered.”
He continued: “At the time, I had no idea I was even infected. I was careless and make no excuse. I hope my story serves as a warning and causes everyone to take this seriously. I will do whatever I can to support using my experience as way to educate others and prevent the spread of this virus.”
On March 12, 2020 — one day after Gobert’s diagnosis — Utah Jazz guard Donovan Mitchell also revealed he’d tested positive for COVID-19, per ESPN. While Gobert’s cavalier attitude caused friction between the teammates, the New York Post reported that the players are committed to bringing “some positive” to those fighting for their lives.
Written by: Nicki
