On September 28th, the kickoff to training camp took place. During this camp LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers superstar, confirmed he is fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Originally, James said he was “skeptical”. But after the 36-year-old did research, he decided to get the COVID-19 vaccine.
“I think everyone has their own choice to do what they feel is right for themselves and their family and things of that nature,” James said from the team’s training facility in El Segundo. “But I was very skeptical about it all, but after doing my research, and things of that nature, I thought like it was best suited, not only for me, but for my family and for my friends and that’s when I decided to do it.”
James did not disclose when he got the vaccine.
Reporters questioned James on whether he should have been more vocal about receiving the vaccine, given his notability.
“We’re talking about individuals’ bodies, we’re not talking about something that’s political, or racism, or police brutality, or things of that nature. We’re talking about people’s bodies and wellbeings,” he responded.
Last week in a conference call, Lakers GM Rob Pelinka was optimistic that the entire team will be fully vaccinated by Oct. 19. This marks the start of the regular season.
Previously in March, James said that his decision on whether or not to get vaccinated against COVID was a not a public one.
“That’s a conversation that, you know, my family and I will have,” James said at the time. “And pretty much probably keep that to a private thing. Obviously I’ve seen Adam (Silver) had his comments about the vaccination and what not. But, you know, things like that, when you decide to do something, that’s a conversation between you and your family and not for everybody.”
Dr. Rand McClain is the chief medical officer of LCR Health. He also treats elite and amateur athletes. In addition to cofounding LCR Health, Dr. McClain also treats elite and amateur athletes at his clinic in Santa Monica, California.
“I think there’s a lot of goodhearted people that mean to do well and provide advice for others.” McClain said. “I wouldn’t presume to tell—let’s just pick any professional athlete—a better way to dunk the basketball or throw the football, because that’s not what I do.”