NBA fines Nets, Irving $25K each for media access violations

The NBA has an issue with Brooklyn Nets guard Kyrie Irving denying access to reporters. Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

NBA fines Nets, Kyrie Irving $25K each for violation of media access rules

By Erin Walsh | Last updated Dec 11, 2020 9:09 AM ET

Kyrie Irving's avoidance of the media during the 2020-21 season likely won't last long.

The NBA fined Irving and the Brooklyn Nets $25,000 each for failure to comply with the league's media access rules, according to a release shared by ESPN's Bobby Marks. The statement says the fines are the "result from Irving's refusal on several occasions this week to participate in team media availability."

The Nets and Kyrie Irving each dinged $25K for failing to meet with the media on several occasions during training camp. pic.twitter.com/XLG2ZW7d6u
— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) December 11, 2020

Irving has declined to speak to the media since the start of training camp on Dec. 1.

Last week, he opted to issue a statement to the media rather than speak directly to them. The All-Star point guard has been slammed by reporters in recent months, and said his statement was released to "ensure that my message is properly conveyed."

The NBA's media policy requires players to be accessible to the media at practices and games. If Irving continues to refuse questions, it wouldn't be surprising to see him hit with another fine.

In 20 games last season, Irving averaged 27.4 points, 5.2 rebounds and 6.4 assists per game while shooting 47.8% from the field and 39.4% from deep. He missed a significant amount of time due to a shoulder injury, but is expected to be ready for the start of the upcoming season.

Erin Walsh

Erin Walsh is a Boston sports fan through and through. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from Bridgewater State University and currently is in pursuit of her Master's Degree in Journalism from Northeastern University. Follow her on Twitter @ewalsh90

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