Russell Westbrook is the latest player in the NBA to have tested positive to the novel coronavirus, as the Houston Rockets star took to his social media accounts on Monday night ,to confirm his status.
Russell Westbrook taking to his social media to reveal his status to the world, said he is in quarantine after testing positive, but warned that the virus is real.
Westbrook also used the opportunity to express thanks for the support he’s receiving at this time. He said:
“I tested positive for COVID-19 prior to my team’s departure to Orlando,” his post read. “I’m currently feeling well, quarantined, and looking forward to joining my teammates when I am cleared.”
He also urged his followers to consider the gravity of the current pandemic and wear masks to lower the likelihood of contributing to its spread.
“Please take this virus seriously,” his statement read. “Be safe. Mask up! #whynot”
Before Russell Westbrook, there have been some other players who have tested positive, and although the fears that were initially expressed at the outbreak of the virus, are beginning to die down, it is also important to note that that virus is a deadly one, and all necessary precautions have to be taken to slow down the spread.
The point guard is the first reported positive case of COVID-19 on his team, but a number of other NBA players have tested positive, as well. The NBA briefly suspended the 2019-2020 season in response to pandemic-related concerns, but the season will begin again on July 30.
Westbrook, who was traded in 2019 after a successful career alongside Oklahoma City Thunder that began in 2008, is not scheduled to play in Orlando alongside the Houston Rockets until July 24, where he will scrimmage against the Toronto Raptors.