Often embattled NBA superstar Lebron James says he received the COVID-19 vaccine. James credited the decision to take the vaccine to those people closest to him in his life. 

But alas, the COVID-19 vaccination, particularly the issue of mandatory vaccination, remains an ongoing controversy. With several NBA superstars speaking out against COVID-19 compulsory vaccines, James was near forced to give his take on such matters. 

James told the media that he was skeptical at first, but eventually decided it was the right thing for him personally. However, he also said that he feels everyone “has their own choice.”

“I think everyone has their own choice to do what they feel is right for themselves and their family,” James said at Lakers’ media day, via USA Today. “I know that I was very (skeptical) about it all, but after doing my research and things of that nature, I felt like it was best suited for not only me but my family and my friends, and that’s why I decided to do it.”

Moreover, James says he won’t partake in encouraging others to get the vaccine.

“We’re talking about individuals’ bodies,” James said. “We’re not talking about something that’s political or racism or police brutality and things of that nature. We’re talking about people’s bodies and well-beings. I don’t feel like, for me personally, that I should get involved in what people should do for their bodies and their livelihoods.”

Of course, it’s likely James individual choice sentiments lead to some controversy; however, the NBA star isn’t a rookie when it comes to media strife. Back in October of 2019, James implied that former Houston Rockets general manager Daryl Morey’s Tweet supporting Hong Kong’s resistance to China wasn’t right. His statement created a massive public and media backlash. 

Whether or not James takes any heat for implying he believes NBA players have the right to choose their vaccine status remains to be seen. The issue over mandatory COVID-19 vaccines remains utterly contentious, and we don’t expect the issue relaxes. 

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