LeBron James’ reason for not wanting to advocate for the COVID-19 vaccine lacks substance, according to fellow NBA star Enes Kanter.
In an interview with CNN, the Celtics big man said he “couldn’t believe it” when the superstar said he wouldn’t promote the vaccine despite being fully vaccinated.
“When I heard it, I was very disappointed, and it’s ridiculous,” Kanter said.
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“Obviously, LeBron James, he’s one of the faces of the league, and he should be the first one to go out there and say, ‘Listen, everyone. I got the vaccine, and I’m encouraging everyone — my community, everyone, basketball fans, non-basketball fans, sports fans — are just going out there and get this vaccine so we can save other lives’.
“I hope (James) can educate himself about this vaccination and inspire and encourage other people around him,” Kanter added.
Speaking at the LA Lakers media day, James confirmed he is vaccinated despite saying he expressed doubt beforehand. James said it’s “not my job” to urge people to get vaccinated.
“We’re talking about individuals’ bodies,” James said. “We’re not talking about something that’s political or racism or police brutality, things of that nature. We’re talking about people’s bodies and wellbeing.
“So I don’t feel like, for me personally, that I should get involved in what other people do for their bodies and their livelihoods.”
NBA players don’t have to be vaccinated under the bargaining agreement, although 95 per cent of players have reportedly been jabbed as of September 30. Warriors star Andrew Wiggins was the latest player to get vaccinated, however the Nets’ Kyrie Irving is reportedly still holding out.
Protocols for unvaccinated players include daily testing and those playing in New York and San Francisco could miss home games and match payments.
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