Pistons’ Blake Griffin joins Michigan governor’s COVID-19 taskforce
During his post-practice media availability on Thursday, Detroit Pistons ahead Blake Griffin wore a masks. Most consultants would agree the odds of catching COVID-19 by way of a digital Zoom convention are non-existent, however Griffin had a optimistic instance to set.
Griffin’s media convention came about an hour after Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced that she’s creating a new task force that might be tasked with elevating consciousness about COVID-19 vaccine security and efficacy.
Griffin is the lone athlete on the Protect Michigan Commission, which additionally consists of Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II, former Lt. Gov. Brian Calley and several other medical consultants.
“I was just approached by the governor and being the spokesperson for being smart, wearing masks, social-distancing, washing hands, doing all of the things that we know are important and helps to slow the spread of the virus,” Griffin mentioned. “But also, the vaccine as well when it’s time for that. It’s not something we’re going to get through just by a few people doing what they need to do. Everybody has to contribute. I’m glad to be a part of it and proud to be a part of it.”
The fee is being fashioned as Michigan prepares for the distribution of Pfizer’s vaccine, which has a 95% efficacy rate. The state of Michigan passed 400,000 cases and 10,000 virus-related deaths this week.
Meanwhile, the NBA is getting ready to begin the 2020-21 season. The Pistons start their house slate with a preseason recreation towards the New York Knicks on Friday; they may play with out followers at Little Caesars Arena for now.
The NBA paused the 2019-20 season in March, then accomplished it and the playoffs in a “bubble” at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, although the Pistons (together with a number of different groups) didn’t participate. Griffin, who has not played for the Pistons since Dec. 28 due to a knee injury, acknowledged that there is some uncertainty approaching the beginning of the season.
But the NBA, together with the National Basketball Players Association, has a plan intended to minimize cases and ensure the completion of the season. Griffin mentioned he believes the league is prioritizing security, and he is desperate to play for the primary time in 2020.
Griffin’s public help for the eventual distribution of a vaccine comes after an ESPN report stating the NBA may develop into the first professional sports league in America to manage wide vaccine dispersalal for its gamers, coaches and workers.
“Is there uncertainty? Yes. I’m not uneasy about it,” Griffin mentioned of the looming season. “I think the NBA and NBPA have done a good job of putting together a plan that keeps us safe, first and foremost. It’s going to be a different experience. Going into it, no one knows what it’s going to be like. I’m just ready to play some basketball.”
Contact Omari Sankofa II at [email protected] Follow him on Twitter @omarisankofa.
