After controversy, Wiggins relents and vaccinates himself against Covid

Warriors coach says the player finally met the requirement before the season

After a long and controversial standoff, Andrew Wiggins had to give in. The Golden State Warriors player had filed a religious exception appeal against the mandatory vaccination in the franchise's home games. But in the face of the NBA's refusal, he got vaccinated, according to coach Steve Kerr.

- Andrew got vaccinated. He told me today that he was okay with our recognition and that's the end of that story. So, I will no longer answer questions about it beyond this one - said the coach.

Last week, Wiggins reinforced his anti-vaccine stance. He stated that despite the pressure, he would not budge.

- I'm definitely against the wall, but I'll keep fighting for what I believe. I will continue to fight for what I believe is right. What is right for one person is not right for another and vice versa,” he said.

Unvaccinated players will be able to compete in the NBA season, but will need to be tested daily in practice, on travel days, and at least once (possibly more) on game days. New York Knicks, New York Nets and Warriors, however, face tougher rules due to legislation in New York and San Francisco – which will not apply to visiting teams.

Wiggins averaged 18.6 points and 4.9 rebounds last season and is considered an important part of the squad. The hope of the Warriors' exhaustion, according to the NBC network, is that any financial sanctions will make the athlete change his mind. When questioned by reporters, however, Wiggins said any financial loss was his problem, not the journalists.

Last Thursday, the NBA reached 95% of its players vaccinated against Covid-19 with at least the first dose. The number increased after the re-introduction of the athletes and the beginning of the pre-season. The league has already made it clear that players who cannot enter the court because of local restrictions on non-vaccinated will have their salary deducted for games they lose. Rules of coexistence on trips and in arenas will also be tougher for those who are not immunized.