Rockets guard Russell Westbrook has announced he has tested positive for COVID-19.
The former league MVP announced Monday that a positive coronavirus test has forced him into quarantine, but it was prior to Houston's arrival in Orlando. Westbrook is the highest-profile NBA athlete to announce he has the virus.
— Russell Westbrook (@russwest44) July 13, 2020
MORE: Complete list of NBA players opting out of remainder of 2020 season
"I tested positive for covid-19 prior to my teams departure for Orlando," Westbrook's statement on Twitter reads. "I'm currently feeling well, quarantined, and looking forward to rejoining my teammates when I am cleared. Thank you for all the well wishes and continued support. Please take this virus seriously. Mask up! #whynot"
The NBA is hoping to restart its season in late July at Disney World in Orlando, Fla., as the league is housing players in a "bubble" scenario to help monitor and protect its athletes amid a global pandemic.
Several of the Association's athletes have already opted out for the return of the season, including Nets players Spencer Dinwiddie and DeAndre Jordan, Willie Cauley-Stein and free agent DeMarcus Cousins.
With games to determine seeding to be played, Westbrook and the Rockets sit at sixth in the Western Conference as 22 teams are set to resume play come July 30.
