Rudy Gobert's Instagram apology gets 250,000-plus likes

Utah's Rudy Gobert - the first NBA player to test positive for coronavirus, which prompted the league to suspend the season - confirmed he tested positive Thursday (12 March) and apologized on social media.

"I want to thank everyone for the outpouring of concern and support over the last 24 hours. I have gone through so many emotions since learning of my diagnosis…mostly fear, anxiety, and embarrassment. The first and most important thing is I would like to publicly apologize to the people that I may have endangered. At the time, I had no idea I was even infected. I was careless and make no excuse. I hope my story serves as a warning and causes everyone to take this seriously. I will do whatever I can to support using my experience as way to educate others and prevent the spread of this virus. I am under great care and will fully recover. Thank you again for all your support. I encourage everyone to take all of the steps to stay safe and healthy. Love," Gobert said in an Instagram post.

Basketball fans appear to have forgiven the Jazz star's antics as, a day later, the post had received nearly 260,000 likes.