The National Basketball Association (NBA) has been instrumental in the continuation of big sporting events amid the pandemic. It’s come up with a comprehensive safety protocol to safeguard the health and welfare of the most famous basketball stars in the world and other professionals in the game.
One of the biggest names in basketball, Lakers player LeBron James confirmed that he has been vaccinated already. However, the 36-year old shooting guard said that it’s not his job to convince other players to follow suit.
As per PhilStarLife.com, James took the jab to help his team in the upcoming 2021-22 season. “At the end of the day you’re always trying to figure out ways that you can be available and protect one another and put yourself in the best possible chance where you are available to your teammates, available to do what we need to do on the floor,” James said. “The ultimate goal is to win a championship and it starts with being healthy, which is the number one thing.”
With the new season coming up soon, 90% of NBA players have been administered the COVID-19 vaccine. However, a lot of famous players have yet to get jabbed.
James’ former teammate and Brooklyn Nets star Kyrie Irving has publicly expressed that he wishes to make the decision private, while Washington Wizards ace Bradley Beal said he was unvaccinated for “personal reasons.” To be fair though, Beal is still considering getting jabbed.
The NBA has lobbied for mandatory vaccinations of players but has reportedly run into opposition from the National Basketball Players Association, the players’ union.
“When it comes to me I can speak for myself,” James said. “I know that I was very skeptical about it all but after doing my own research I felt like it was best suited for me and my family and my friends. That’s why I decided to do it.” Perhaps, he’s just playing it safe? Either way, it’s good news for the Lake Show as he’ll get to suit up real soon.
Art Daniella Sison
