If you’re a Utah Jazz fan, you’ve probably heard tell of the ongoing drama between Gonzaga Prep and its most famous student of all time, John Stockton. If you’re a human being living in the world, you’ve probably heard tell of COVID-19, and the conflict between those who wear masks and those who don’t.
In case you’re somehow reading this page and unaware, we’ll bring you up to speed.
Utah Jazz legend refuses to wear mask
Some see the now iconic face mask is a necessary preventative measure against a global pandemic that has dominated international discourse for over two years. Others see it as a symbol of tyranny.
All the caveats we’ve always given at the J-Notes about remaining politically neutral apply here. We’re donning the mask of journalistic integrity and refusing to give you our stance on the issue.
We can report that John Stockton falls in the latter of those camps. We can also objectively say that whenever you take the less popular stance on an issue, you risk consequences.
Former Utah Jazz point guard banned from alma mater
In Stockton’s case, the consequence was a ban from attending Gonzaga games. It’s almost inconceivable. Stockton is the most decorated athlete in the school’s history by a long shot. He is the all-time leader in two major statistical categories in NBA history.
Apparently, he is too convinced of his anti-mask convictions to swallow his pride and put on a mask for the sake of being welcomed in Gonzaga’s gym. Surely, neither side is happy with this arrangement.
Utah Jazz legend’s statue defaced
Apparently, neither is at least one fan in Salt Lake City. The statue of Stockton that stands outside the Vivint Arena was recently fitted with a mask by a local prankster.
Depending where you stand, the gesture is either hilarious, profound, offensive, or some confusing combination of each. Wherever you stand, there is an undeniable sadness in a school’s most celebrated athlete being unwelcomed in its gym.
We can also surely all agree that hopefully, this pandemic ends sooner than later. In the meantime, one Utah Jazz legend will wait to return to the gym he grew up in.