By Emre Asikci
ISTANBUL (AA) - Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James said on Tuesday that he received the coronavirus vaccine, months after being initially skeptical of it.
"I know that I was very skepticism (sic) 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. That's why I decided to do it," James said during the Los Angeles Lakers media day.
Four-time NBA champion noted that he decided to receive it for the well-being of himself, his family, and his team.
"We are talking about people's bodies and well beings. I don't feel like for me personally that I should get involved in what other people should do for their bodies and livelihoods ... You have to do what's best for you and your family, he added.
LA Lakers said that it was not his job to persuade other NBA players to follow suit.
"I know what I did for me and my family. I know what some of my friends did for their families. But as far as speaking for everybody and their individualities, and things they want to do, that's not my job," he added.
The superstar went on to say that everyone has their own choice to do what they feel is right for themselves and their family and things of that nature.
James is a four-time NBA champion (2012, 2013, 2016, 2020), winning the title with the Miami Heat, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Los Angeles Lakers.
The 36-year-old has been playing for the Lakers since 2018.
Nearly 90% of players have got at least one dose of the shot, but some players are reportedly not vaccinated.
Golden State Warriors' Andrew Wiggins previously applied for a religious exemption from receiving COVID-19 vaccination, but NBA denied his request.
"I'm confident in my beliefs and what I think is right, what I think is wrong. I'm just going to keep doing what I believe. Whether it's one thing or another, just going to keep doing it," Wiggins said.
Also, Washington Wizards star guard Bradley Beal refused to get the COVID-19 vaccine.