COVID-19 tested their resolve. But Rudy Gobert, Donovan Mitchell and the Utah Jazz emerged in a better place.

The Utah Jazz had the potential to self-destruct and ruin what they were trying to accomplish.

The Jazz became the face of COVID-19 in pro sports when All-Star center Rudy Gobert tested positive on March 11, 2020 – two days after touching reporters’ recorders in an attempt at a coronavirus joke – and All-Star teammate Donovan Mitchell was diagnosed with COVID-19 the next day.

The league made the dramatic decision to suspend the season the night Gobert tested positive.

Reports of strife between the two stars emerged immediately. Mitchell and some teammates were frustrated with Gobert. Both players saw the reports.

“Rudy and I are unsalvageable,” Mitchell said, parroting the headlines.

Were the Jazz on the verge of imploding? Would the Jazz have to trade one All-Star to placate another All-Star?

The Jazz did not implode. They didn’t have to trade either of their stars.

LIKE SPORTS? SO DO WE: Sign up for our daily sports newsletter and never miss a moment.

READY TO SHINE: These six NBA players could make major impact on playoff picture


Source: Read Full Article