Feb 22, 2020; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Russell Westbrook reacts during the third quarter against the Utah Jazz at Vivint Smart Home Arena. Chris Nicoll-USA TODAY Sports

Russell Westbrook tests positive for coronavirus

By Blake Harper | Last updated 7/13/20

Russell Westbrook is in quarantine after testing positive for the coronavirus. The Rockets point guard announced the news on Twitter, while also encouraging followers to wear a mask and take the pandemic seriously.

"I tested positive for covid-19 prior to my team's departure to Orlando," Westbrook tweeted. "I'm currently feeling well, quarantined, and looking forward to joining my teammates when I am cleared. Thank you for all the well wishes and continued support. Please take this virus seriously. Be safe. Mask up! #whynot."

Westbrook was set to head to Orlando this week along with the rest of the Rockets' roster, but he will now need to quarantine until he is cleared and approved to enter the bubble. The NBA is set to resume on July 30, with the Rockets among the teams expected to be fighting for a better playoff position before the postseason begin.

pic.twitter.com/Kq7CE26TxD
— Russell Westbrook (@russwest44) July 13, 2020

While Westbrook is the latest NBA player to test positive for COVID-19, he is not the only one. Nikola Jokic, Spencer Dinwiddie, and many others have also tested positive, with Dinwiddie opting out of going to Orlando following his positive test. The NBA remains committed to keeping the virus out of the bubble, which is why players have been getting tested before heading to Orlando.

If the Rockets hope to compete for a title, they will certainly need a healthy Westbrook on their roster, as he has become an essential part of the offense since being traded to the team last summer.

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