Marcus Smart and Sean Payton were the two latest sports figures who were tested positive for Coronavirus. Along with them, two Los Angeles Lakers players were also confirmed to be positive on COVID-19. However, their name wasn’t revealed at the moment.
“We learned today that two Lakers players have tested positive. Both players are currently asymptomatic, in quarantine and under the care of the team’s physician,” wrote in the team’s statement.
Also, it is said that some of the players weren’t tested back on Wednesday, but they will be in the shortest possible time. It appears that the Lakers’ players were exposed to the virus once meeting the Brooklyn Nets. Once the news emerged that four of their players tested positive, the purple and gold began testing themselves.
The game against the Nets was one day before the entire season got suspended.
As for Smart, he was tested five days ago and didn’t have any symptoms, which would suggest that he has COVID-19. Fortunately, the Celtics’ guard is feeling good and doesn’t have any particular problems at the time. He addressed the public via his Twitter account, advising all people to follow the rules of quarantine and self-isolation.
“I’ve had no symptoms, and I feel great,” said Smart. “But the younger generation in our country MUST self distance. This is not a joke. Not doing so is selfish.”
At the moment, there are 14 cases of COVID-19 in the NBA. The first detected was Rudy Gobert for the Utah Jazz, and immediately afterward his teammate Donovan Mitchell. Christian Wood from Detroit was the next one tested positive, and then came Kevin Durant and three other players from Brooklyn. All other infected were not players but individuals from various franchises.
In the meantime, Sean Payton, the New Orleans Saints’ head coach, also tested positive on this virus. The 56-year old is the first NFL member to be positive on this virus.
According to the head coach himself, he felt some issues on Sunday and immediately went to do the test. After three days of waiting, the results came on Thursday, saying that he is positive.
Payton wanted everyone to know that he feels well and that he is in quarantine. Also, the Saints’ head coach sent a message to all the generations saying that at this point, everyone needs to follow the guidelines provided by the experts, and that discipline is vital in these tough times.
“I was fortunate to be in the minority, without the serious side effects that some have. I’m lucky. Younger people feel like they can handle this, but they can be a carrier to someone who can’t handle it. So we all need to do our part. It’s important for every one of us to do our part.”
As time goes by, the behavior of the COVID-19 pandemic will depend upon ourselves alone. The stronger we are now, and the more disciplined, the virus will be defeated sooner. It is why it is essential to stay at home, follow all the rules regarding self-isolation and quarantine. It might save the lives of the ones you love. The team of the website wishes you all the best. Stay safe.
