Kyrie Irving’s decision not to receive the COVID-19 vaccine during the 2021-22 NBA season continues to generate discussion years later. This time, the conversation was reignited after a Florida lawmaker urged President Donald Trump to award the Dallas Mavericks star the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
The proposal quickly spread across social media, drawing a wide range of reactions. While some praised Irving’s stance during the pandemic, many others questioned whether it warranted one of the nation’s highest civilian honors.
Proposal
Florida Representative Anna Paulina Luna made the suggestion in response to a social media post featuring sports commentator Stephen A. Smith’s apology to Irving.
In her post, Luna called on President Donald Trump to present Irving with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, describing his refusal to receive the COVID-19 vaccine as an act of bravery during what she referred to as “one of the darkest times in modern history.”
Her comments immediately became a topic of debate among basketball fans and political observers.
Background
During the 2021-22 NBA season, Irving was unable to play in many Brooklyn Nets home games because New York City’s COVID-19 vaccination requirements prevented unvaccinated players from participating in home contests.
Despite appearing in only 29 regular-season games, Irving remained one of the league’s most productive guards.
| Season | Games | Points | Rebounds | Assists | Steals |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021-22 | 29 | 27.4 | 4.4 | 5.8 | 1.4 |
Irving helped Brooklyn reach the playoffs despite the limited number of appearances.
Reactions
The proposal received significant criticism across social media.
Film writer and director Antonio De La Cruz questioned why Irving should receive such an honor.
“What the hell did he do? You are losing your mind,” he wrote.
A basketball content creator also expressed disbelief, writing simply, “We are cooked.”
Another user argued that many people faced workplace consequences over vaccine policies and did not believe Irving deserved special recognition.
Others criticized the proposal itself, suggesting the Presidential Medal of Freedom should be reserved for different types of achievements.
Criticism
Some responses focused less on Irving and more on the political nature of the proposal.
One Miami Heat supporter dismissed the suggestion as political theater, while another commenter questioned whether Irving would even accept such an award if it were offered.
Several users argued that honoring athletes for their personal decisions during the pandemic would be controversial given the broader public debate surrounding COVID-19 policies.
Support
Although much of the online reaction was critical, Luna’s proposal also received support.
Sports content creator Jon Root agreed with the lawmaker, arguing that Irving should be recognized for standing by his beliefs despite facing professional and financial consequences.
Root also suggested that other athletes who declined COVID-19 vaccinations, including Novak Djokovic, Tyler Bertuzzi, Aaron Rodgers, and Cole Beasley, deserved similar recognition.
Supporters pointed to the personal and career risks those athletes accepted while maintaining their positions.
Career
Irving’s decision during the 2021-22 season had financial implications.
Before the season, he declined a long-term contract extension with the Brooklyn Nets. His availability remained limited because of local vaccination rules, and he was later traded to the Dallas Mavericks during the 2022-23 season.
Irving continues to play for Dallas and remains one of the NBA’s most recognizable players.
Debate
The discussion surrounding Luna’s proposal reflects how issues connected to the COVID-19 pandemic continue to generate differing opinions years later.
Supporters view Irving’s decision as an example of standing by personal convictions despite significant consequences. Critics argue that the Presidential Medal of Freedom is intended to recognize exceptional contributions to the nation and question whether Irving’s actions meet that standard.
As of now, there has been no indication that President Donald Trump plans to act on the proposal.
FAQs
Why was Kyrie Irving nominated?
A Florida lawmaker praised his COVID-19 vaccine stance.
Who made the proposal?
Florida Representative Anna Paulina Luna.
How did NBA fans react?
Many criticized the proposal, while some supported it.
Which team does Kyrie Irving play for?
He currently plays for the Dallas Mavericks.
Has Trump announced the award?
No official announcement has been made.
