Hornets guard Malik Monk tests positive for COVID-19

On Wednesday, the NBA and National Basketball Players Association announced in a joint statement that 48 of 546 players tested positive for COVID-19 before the start of training camp sessions. 

Charlotte Hornets guard Malik Monk is among those who returned a positive result. 

Per Rick Bonnell of Kentucky.com, Charlotte coach James Borrego confirmed the news when speaking with reporters following his team's first preseason practice. 

"He’ll probably be out a few more days," Borrego explained. "Unfortunately, he’s been out the last few days. Look forward to getting him back soon. We’re following all the protocols, and making sure he’s healthy, No. 1, but he is asymptomatic."

Monk can resume official activities once he returns two negative COVID-19 tests at least 24 hours apart or isolates for 10 days following the initial positive test or start of symptoms. 

The 22-year-old was suspended in February for a violation of the Association's anti-drug program and remained banned until the league reinstated him in June. Monk is set to become a free agent after the upcoming campaign, but Charlotte could attempt to keep him via a qualifying offer that Spotrac lists will be worth slightly over $7.3 million. 

NBA preseason games get underway on Dec. 11, with the regular season set to open on Dec. 22.