NBA Coaches Reportedly Asked Players Not to Fraternize with Postseason Rivals

Some NBA coaches have reportedly asked players to stop fraternizing with potential postseason opponents as the playoffs loom in the Disney bubble near Orlando, Florida.

Chris Haynes of Yahoo Sports reported the request has been "met with mixed reviews" from players. Since the league restarted late last month, players have bonded over common goals like social justice reform and hung out together simply because of proximity, which has fostered a friendlier atmosphere on the floor. 

"Man, I'm helping any brother I see on the floor," one player told Haynes.

While it's understandable that coaches want their players to be as competitive as possible, this is a difficult request. Players only have one another to socialize with in the bubble. The limited amount of family members who are allowed to enter the bubble can only begin doing so after the first round of the playoffs. 

Players are making real mental health sacrifices so the bubble works. If the occasional fraternizing with the "enemy" needs to take place, it should be encouraged.

These are professional basketball players; they have the capability to compartmentalize any friendships that may develop with the job that needs to be done on the floor.