In further proof, sports are now big business. The Wall Street Journal reports that Los Angeles Lakers star and basketball great LeBron James will spend the next ten days in COVID-19 protocol because “The King” has either tested positive or “inconclusive” for SARS-CoV-2, the virus behind COVID-19. James, who says he’s fully vaccinated, must conform to NBA rules and have a seat off the court. This appears to be yet the latest example of a high-profile breakthrough infection. TrialSite observes an ever-growing number of breakthrough cases. Numerous studies demonstrate waning effectiveness implying vaccine durability issues. Will new variants such as Omicron make this situation worse?
This is the latest blow to the Lakers who’ve had a tough time in the NBA so far this year. According to the article in the Journal, James is asymptomatic. It’s a setback for the superstar who’s missed half of the Laker games this season. An article on CNN.com says James missed games with an abdominal strain, then the star was suspended one game and fined $15,000 for making an obscene gesture to a fan.
James is one of the biggest draws in the NBA and last year was somewhat cagey about his vaccination status. In September, of this year, James announced he was vaccinated. He has not endorsed or spoken out against vaccination, saying, “I don’t feel like, for me personally, I should get involved in what other people should do for their bodies and their livelihoods.”
“The King” himself has neither confirmed nor denied he’s tested positive but left it up to teammate Anthony Davis to make the announcement. Davis said, “COVID is a very scary thing” suggesting the 36-year-old James may have, in fact, tested positive.
James’ absence could be a blow to TV ratings. The Lakers have several upcoming nationally televised games first with the Boston Celtics and then the Los Angeles Clippers. The games are major, and James could be out for both of them. NY Knicks fans were disappointed when the Lakers played at Madison Square Garden without James. “The King” was serving his suspension for the “obscene gesture”. Obviously, James is a huge draw for basketball fans.
The NBA is pushing players to get vaccinated and boosted because the league plays indoors with a greater risk of contracting covid. The league also announced players would be subject to increased testing if they don’t get the booster. This is not only a question of health but also to guard against loss of revenue. The National Hockey League has suffered from a loss of revenue due to the virus. The NY Islanders had to cancel games last week because a large number of players tested positive for coronavirus.
Meanwhile, TrialSite observes what appears to be ever-growing numbers of breakthrough infections due to a combination of waning COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness—a significant problem that could possibly worsen with new variants. Hence the government’s recommendation for booster shots.
James has always touted his physicality but this year after the abdominal injury and covid, perhaps “The King” has finally been proven to be more like the rest of us.