Topline
Basketball star LeBron James has been vaccinated against coronavirus, the Los Angeles Lakers forward said Tuesday, as a small number of players stubbornly resist efforts by the National Basketball Association to push them to get the jab.
The Los Angeles Lakers' LeBron James fields questions during the NBA basketball team’s Media Day on ... [+]
Key Facts
The four-time MVP said he was initially “skeptical” of the coronavirus vaccines, but decided to get a shot after doing more research, he told reporters during the Lakers’ annual press day before the season opener.
James said he was motivated to get vaccinated in part by his goal to win a championship for the Lakers, saying, “Health is the number one thing.”
He stopped short of recommending coronavirus vaccinations for all, saying he could only speak to what was best for his family.
Crucial Quote
“I think everyone has their own choice to do what they feel is right for themselves and their family, and things of that nature,” LeBron said. “I know that I was very skeptical about it all. But after doing my research, I felt like it was best suited for not only me, but for my family and my friends.”
Key Background
James is the latest NBA player to come forward with his vaccination status as the league prepares to kick off the 2021-22 season. James’ teammate Anthony Davis also announced he’s been vaccinated, along with top players like Stephen Curry from the Golden State Warriors and the Milwaukee Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo. The NBA estimates that about 90% of players are vaccinated, though the league does not have a vaccine mandate in place. Some prominent players have taken public stands against vaccination or been evasive about their status, including Bradley Beal of the Washington Wizards, Andrew Wiggins of the Golden State Warriors and Kyrie Irving of the Brooklyn Nets.
