Kyrie Irving and the Brooklyn Nets have each found themselves on the wrong end of the league for skipping media availability so far this preseason and incurred a fine of $25000 for their troubles.
Teams must make healthy players available to reporters before or after games and practices in accordance with league rules.
Teams are also enjoined to designate a day at the start of training camp for every player to speak to the media. The rule also applies to a team’s general manager and coach.
The Brooklyn Nets star guard Kyrie Irving has yet to respond to media requests for interviews since training camp commenced on December 1.
And in response, Irving said: “Instead of speaking to the media today, I am issuing this statement to ensure that my message is properly conveyed.”
“I am committed to show up to work every day, ready to have fun, compete, perform, and win championships alongside my teammates and colleagues in the Nets organisation.”
Having signed a four-year deal with the Nets worth $141m last year following previous spells with the Boston Celtics and Cleveland Cavaliers, Irving wouldn’t have expected to be at the wrong end of the stick.
According to ESPN, since the fine is not more than $50,000, Irving would not be able to file a grievance.
The Nets will take on the Washington Wizards to kick off their preseason campaign on Sunday.
The 2020-21 NBA season is then scheduled to get underway on December 22, with Brooklyn facing the Golden State Warriors on opening night.
