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'Let Kyrie Play!': Dramatic Footage Shows Anti-Vax Protesters Rush Brooklyn's Barclays Center

A group of anti-vaccine protesters attempted to push their way into Brooklyn’s Barclays Center on Sunday, October 24, in support of Nets point guard Kyrie Irving, who has been forced to sit out the NBA season after refusing a COVID-19 vaccination.

This footage, taken in the plaza outside Barclays Center, shows protesters rush through outer security gates and attempt to force their way inside the arena. Staff can be seen at Barclays Center’s main entrance holding members of the crowd at bay. Other video shows demonstrators holding signs that said “STAND WITH KYRIE,” and messages expressing opposition to COVID-19 vaccinations.

Irving, the Nets starting point guard, is one of the highest profile American athletes to turn down a vaccine, and is currently the the only NBA player unable to suit up for games, due to his opposition and local laws. New York City’s vaccinate mandate requires at least one vaccination shot for entry to public gyms, which Barclays Center is considered. The Nets were playing the Charlotte Hornets inside Barclays Center on Sunday afternoon.

Media citing the spokesperson for Barclays Center reported the stadium “briefly closed its doors in order to clear protesters from the main doors on the plaza and ensure guests could safely enter the arena.” Credit: @justericthomas via Storyful