KYRIE IRVING SUPPORT GROWS AS PROTESTORS RALLY OUTSIDE OF BARCLAY CENTER
The support for Kyrie Irving continues to grow as a group of protesters gathered outside to show their support for the Basketball star. The protest occurred at Barclays Center before the Nets lost their home opener to the Charlotte Hornets on Sunday.
Protestors marching through Brooklyn to Barclays Center, chanting "Stand with Kyrie." Irving is ineligible for #Nets home games – and was essentially shelved by the team altogether – because he won't adhere to the city's COVID-19 vaccine mandate. #NBA https://t.co/yIQef6aFXU
— Brian Lewis (@NYPost_Lewis) October 24, 2021
Supporters of Kyrie Irving who are against vaccine mandates storm the doors of the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. pic.twitter.com/aBA6YTWCCe
— Marie Oakes (@TheMarieOakes) October 24, 2021
The protest was peaceful until the crowd turned aggressive and stormed past authorities outside the arena. Protestors wore shirts with “Stand with Kyrie” printed on them while demanding the league to let Kyrie play. Fans also waved signs and flags to show their support for Irving.
Security had to rush and lock down the Barclays Center at one point, which prevented some fans from entering. Although there was a delay in the entrance, the game still began on time.
“Barclays Center briefly closed its doors today in order to clear protestors from the main doors on the plaza and ensure guests could safely enter the arena,” a spokesperson for the arena said in a statement provided to Reuters. “Only ticketed guests were able to enter the building and the game proceeded according to schedule.”
A few weeks ago, Irving addressed his stance on not receiving the vaccine and the speculation of his retirement.
“No, I’m not going and leaving this game like this,” Irving said. “There’s still so much more work to do, and there’s still so many more other youngin’s to inspire because I know they want to be better than me, and I can’t wait to play against all y’all on this stage.”
It seems like Irving has intentions of continuing his career, but whatever his end goal is, it is certainly his right to refuse vaccination. New York City also has the right to say that his action has consequences and the Nets’ right to do what they feel is best regarding the safety of their team and employees.
