After days of speculation, Rockets star guard Russell Westbrook confirmed Monday that he has tested positive for the coronavirus via an Instagram post.
Neither James Harden nor Westbrook joined their team in Orlando last Thursday for the beginning of the season restart, which fueled speculation that both stars have contracted the virus. But per NBA guidelines on COVID-19, the team could not say why both players have been absent for the beginning of team’s time in the NBA bubble at Disney World.
Westbrook, however, broke the silence Monday when he confirmed his positive test on Instagram.
“I tested positive for COVID-19 prior to my team’s departure to Orlando,” Westbrook wrote. “I’m currently feeling well, quarantined, and looking forward to rejoining my teammates when I am cleared. Thank you all for the well wishes and continued support. Please take this virus seriously. Be safe. Mask up.”
— Russell Westbrook (@russwest44) July 13, 2020
There is no mention of Harden and the team has only said they expect both stars to join the team soon in Orlando. Players who test positive for the coronavirus must have three negative tests before they are allowed to rejoin their teammates in the bubble.
The NBA has 22 teams in Orlando preparing to play an eight-game regular season starting at the end of the month before beginning the playoffs.
