Free Republic

The fact that 24-year-old Jonathan Isaac can speak more cogently about COVID and freedom of conscience than the entire corporate press is an astonishing development.One of the most remarkable twists in the pandemic is that a handful of NBA players have emerged as the most cogent and principled defenders of liberty, common sense, and basic civic decency in America.It’s a bit unexpected. In recent years, the NBA has most often landed in the political news cycle thanks to LeBron James’ disgusting habit of bowing and scraping before the Chinese Communist Party, or Steve Kerr’s refusal to breathe a word about...

In a rather strange and unexpected twist, it is NBA players who are reshaping the discussion around coronavirus vaccinations and personal choice, with numerous players voicing their opinions this week as the league debates punishments for the approximately 5% of players who reportedly aren’t vaccinated.We previously wrote about how Orlando Magic basketball player Jonathan Isaac, 23, and Washington Wizards star Bradley Beal, 28, were among several players who spoke out Monday after being questioned by reporters on “Media Day” as to their personal opinions on the coronavirus vaccine and why they felt like it should be a personal choice instead...

Golden State Warriors forward Andrew Wiggins was denied Friday in his quest for a religious exemption by the NBA to San Francisco’s vaccine requirement. Wiggins has steadfastly refused to get the vaccine, according to a report this week from the San Francisco Chronicle. Since the city requires vaccination for everyone at large, indoor gatherings — such as basketball games — the veteran forward will not be able to play in any home games if he remains resistant to getting the shot. It’s possible he won’t be able to play at a number of road arenas that also require vaccination.