Videos of Irving maskless at what looks to be a family birthday party surfaced on social media late Monday night. He can be seen dancing with his sister, Asia, in the clips. The league could deem him in violation of their COVID-19 guidelines, which could result in disciplinary action. The date of the event shown on video is unknown.
The Nets said they "are aware" of the video. Per a league official, the NBA is reviewing the situation surrounding the video and indoor party.
Houston’s James Harden was fined $50,000 earlier this season for violating the league’s COVID-19 protocols when he attended an indoor party.
League rules prohibit players from going to bars, lounges or clubs and from participating in social gatherings of more than 15 people.
The Nets have cited personal reasons as to why Irving has missed the last few games. Nets head coach Steve Nash has declined to offer much detail on Irving’s situation, referring to it as a private matter. The team said in a statement Tuesday that "Kyrie will have the opportunity to address his absence when he is ready to do so."
Nets star Kevin Durant on Sunday said he didn’t speak on behalf of Irving, his close friend, but he made it clear that Irving has his full support during the point guard’s absence.
“We support him 100 percent and pray for the best,” Durant said after Brooklyn’s loss to Oklahoma City.
Irving and Durant are playing together for the first time since signing with the Nets in the 2019 offseason. The Nets entered the season with championship expectations. The club is off to a 5-6 start and has gone 1-2 in Irving’s absence. Durant missed the previous week while quarantining after coming into contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19.
Brooklyn faces Denver at home on Tuesday and faces the Knicks at Madison Square Garden on Wednesday.
