| September 24, 2021, 8:19 PM
September 24, 2021, 8:19 PM
Editor's note: With overwhelming consistency, research has shown vaccinations against COVID-19 are safe and effective. Residents of Canada who are looking to learn more about vaccines, or the country's pandemic response, can find up-to-date information on Canada's public health website.
The NBA has denied Andrew Wiggins' request for a religious exemption from the San Francisco Department of Public Health’s vaccination requirements, rendering him unable to play in Golden State Warriors home games until he is vaccinated.
In San Francisco, where the Warriors play, everyone 12 years or older — including performers and players — must be vaccinated to attend large and mega indoor events.
Multiple reports surfaced Thursday that Wiggins remains unvaccinated against COVID-19. The San Francisco Department of Public Health told the San Francisco Chronicle earlier this week it would not comment specifically on Wiggins’ case, but noted that the league's decision would not negate public health policy.
The substance of Wiggins' exemption request was not disclosed by the league, nor has he publicly commented on it at this time.
Wiggins, from Vaughan, Ont., averaged 18.6 points and 4.9 rebounds in 71 games with the Warriors last season before playing for Canada in its failed bid to qualify for the Olympics at a tournament in Victoria.
Selected first overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2014 NBA Draft, Wiggins has averaged 19.5 points and 4.4 rebounds in 525 career NBA games with the Minnesota Timberwolves and Warriors.
