Nuggets Announce Member of Organization Tested Positive for the Coronavirus

The Denver Nuggets announced Thursday a member of their organization has tested positive for the coronavirus. 

"The person, who was tested after experiencing symptoms consistent with COVID-19 on March 16, is currently under the care of team medical staff and in self-isolation," the Nuggets said. "The testing was undertaken following guidance from state public health officials and team physicians."

Denver was last in action March 11, losing 113-97 to the Dallas Mavericks.

Utah Jazz star Rudy Gobert was the first NBA player to test positive for the coronavirus, which led the league to suspend play indefinitely. Jazz star Donovan Mitchell confirmed he was diagnosed with COVID-19 as well, and Shams Charania of The Athletic and Stadium reported Detroit Pistons forward also Christian Wood tested positive.

The Brooklyn Nets announced Tuesday four of their players had the coronavirus, with Kevin Durant confirming to Charania he was one of the four.

Given the ongoing shortage of coronavirus tests and testing supplies, NBA teams have received some criticism for testing their players and employees. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio questioned whether the Nets should have received priority status:

The Nets issued a statement saying they worked with a private company for the testing process and concluded the step was "the responsible thing to do from a medical and epidemiological standpoint."

Commissioner Adam Silver addressed the situation with ESPN's Rachel Nichols:

According to ESPN's Tim Bontemps, the NBA sent a memo to all 30 teams that said they "must close their practice and training facilities to players and staff until further notice" to limit the spread of COVID-19.

As a result, players are left to work out on their own as they prepare for the possible resumption of the 2019-20 season.