LeBron James, the Los Angeles Lakers superstar, confirmed on Tuesday that he received the COVID-19 vaccine but assured that it is not his “job” to convince other NBA players to get immunized against the virus.
The forward, who this season will fight for the fifth ring of his career, had been skeptical in the past on the subject and had declined to clarify whether he was immunized, claiming it was a “private” matter for him and his family.
This Tuesday, in the presentation to the media of the new Lakers squad, ‘King James’ said that he participated in the vaccination campaign of 100% of players and coaching staff of the Los Angeles franchise.
“At the end of the day you always try to find a way to be available and protect others and put yourself in the best possible position for your teammates,” said James. “The ultimate goal is to win a championship and that starts with being healthy.”
The forward, who led the Lakers to the title in 2020, said he chose to get vaccinated as it was the best option for him and his family.
“I think everyone has a decision to do what they think is right for themselves and their family,” said 36-year-old James.
“I know I was very skeptical about it, but after doing my own research I felt it was the best fit for me, my family and my friends. So I decided to do it, “he said.
– “It’s not my job” –
It is estimated that around 90% of NBA players have been vaccinated before the start of training for the new season on Tuesday, which begins on October 19.
However, attention has focused on some figures in the league who for now refuse to be vaccinated or clarify their position on the matter.
On Monday, guard Kyrie Irving did not attend the Brooklyn Nets presentation because, according to US media, his presence on the field would violate local protocols against the coronavirus.
The Washington Wizards figure, Bradley Beal, declared that he has not been vaccinated for “personal reasons” and the Canadian Andrew Wiggins of the Golden State Warriors saw his request for a vaccine exemption for religious reasons rejected by the NBA and could miss home games in San Francisco (California).
Asked Tuesday about whether he could play a more active role in persuading other players about the vaccine, LeBron said that role is not his.
“You’re talking about the bodies of individuals,” he stressed. “You are not talking about something that is political, or racism, or police brutality. You are talking about people’s bodies and their well-being.
“That’s not my job,” he settled. “I don’t think that, personally, I should be involved in what people do for their bodies and their way of making a living. It would be like me talking about whether someone should take this job or not. You have to do what is best for you and your family. (AFP)