Ahh coronavirus and the NBA. How I hope to someday never think about that terrible combination.
Well, it appears those days are ahead. According to Connor Letourneau of the San Francisco Chronicle, a dozen members of the Warriors organization received Covid-19 vaccines Wednesday, including forward Draymond Green and coach Steve Kerr.
Details about others who received the vaccine were not released.
They got the one-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine, which will result in faster immunity and fewer side effects. Side effects are normal and can include body chills and arm pain and others, per Business Insider.
In fact, reckless speculation: but did Draymond Green miss the Warriors blowout loss on Thursday because of side effects? He missed the game for feeling “ill,” per the Warriors.
But this will help in the long run for society and perhaps the Warriors, too. They’ve had multiple players miss time due to health and safety protocols, including center James Wiseman, forward Eric Paschall and C Kevon Looney. Green himself had Covid-19 just before the year.
But he still got vaccinated. We’re still learning about this novel virus, and there is evidence one can contract it more than once. Plus, there are perks in the NBA for those that vaccinate. Check it out, courtesy of Letourneau.
Last week, the NBA and National Basketball Players Association agreed to offer expanded benefits for those who have been fully vaccinated. Fully vaccinated individuals no longer have to quarantine following exposure to the coronavirus. They can have friends, family and others visit at home and on the road without having them test or register with the team, and they can dine outdoors at restaurants.
Connor Letourneau/San Francisco Chronicle
That’s truly fantastic. It’s sensible, and it motivates players to receive the vaccine.
But couldn’t they have picked a better day? Golden State plays again on Friday, and having Green available will be key in getting back the .500 mark, which they just fell below after a blowout loss to the Kings on Friday.
(Photo credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports)
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