NBA on TNT analyst Charles Barkley announced Monday he tested negative for the novel coronavirus after undergoing tests on March 12, the day after the NBA decided to suspend the 2019-20 season.
Via Richard Deitsch of The Athletic:
“I’ve received my COVID-19 test results this morning and they are negative,” said Barkley in a statement. I’d like to thank everyone for reaching out and expressing your concern and support. You all be safe and please take the necessary actions to help ensure your well-being.”
While many people have struggled when it comes to actually getting a test done, it's still shocking to hear this announcement come a whopping 11 days after first being tested. The Cleveland Clinic developed a test that gives results in only eight hours, while others in South Korea have also turned excellent times upon testing in air-pressure-controlled booths. This was quite the lengthy turnaround time.
Barkley and the rest of the NBA on TNT staff often came in contact with players during their show, whether it was during the “Inside The NBA” show or in post-production. That's an awful lot of handshakes, hugs, and close contact before the NBA deemed it too unsafe to continue playing — hence why Barkley underwent testing after he wasn't feeling well.
So far, eight NBA teams have undergone coronavirus testing in full, and players have been advised to remain isolated from the public until further notice. Players have also been advised to remain in their home markets, though they've also been allowed to return to their hometowns, so long as those are within the United States.
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