As the Omicron variant continues to run roughshod, the NBA is requiring non-boosted players to undergo daily COVID testing through the All-Star break in mid-February and is restricting those players’ attendance at large indoor gatherings, bars and clubs, according to a memo obtained by ESPN on Thursday night.
Elevated daily testing of all players, coaches and basketball staff that started Dec. 26 also will continue through Jan. 15, according to the memo.
That testing cycle was originally supposed to end Saturday, but it’s been extended an additional week now.
The NBA and National Basketball Players Association agreed on several increased testing protocols in the wake of the ongoing surge of COVID cases. Those testing requirements don’t include team off days, the memo said.
Also, mask requirements for team personnel surrounding travel, hotels and team facilities will be extended through Jan. 19, the memo said.
The NBA had 11 games postponed in December and 300-plus players and 12 head coaches placed into health and safety protocols this season.