USA TODAY International Edition
Kareem blasts Rodgers for COVID comments
“What’s especially bothersome is that Aaron Rodgers didn’t just lie and threaten the health of those around him, he also damaged professional sports.”
Basketball Hall of Famer Kareem Abdul- Jabbar, a longtime writer and observer of sports and culture, penned a Substack entry focused on Aaron Rodgers that published Monday morning.
In “Aaron Rodgers didn’t just lie,” Abdul- Jabbar argued that Rodgers hurt the image of professional athletes at large, both in the eyes of those who look up to the quarterback and in the eyes of sponsors who might balk at engaging in partnerships with pro athletes going forward.
Prevea Health ended its relationship with Rodgers over the weekend in the wake of comments Rodgers made explaining why he did not accept an NFLrecognized COVID- 19 recommendation.
“What’s especially bothersome is that Aaron Rodgers didn’t just lie and threaten the health of those around him, he also damaged professional sports,” Abdul- Jabbar wrote. “Many athletes make a lot of money on product endorsements, which depends on the public’s favorable perception of athletes. In 2020, global sports sponsorship was worth about $ 57 billion. Yet, every time a pro athlete like ... Aaron Rodgers does or says something stupid, the public trust in athletes lowers and sponsors might consider avoiding players in favor of actors, pop stars, or social media influencers. Steph Curry and LeBron James don’t have to worry, but some up- and- comers might not get the same opportunities.
“Rodgers’ ignorance regarding the science of immunology brings back to life the old stereotype of the big dumb jock. His utter lack of even the most basic knowledge and logic is shocking.”
Abdul- Jabbar reiterated the elements of misinformation in Rodgers’ comments and even expressed doubt as to whether Rodgers is truly allergic to the mRNA vaccines, the reason Rodgers cited for not taking the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine.
“He also claimed he was allergic to ingredients in the vaccine, but offered no proof, which may be why the NFL denied his petition for vaccine exemption,” Abdul- Jabbar wrote. “Statistically, only 21 out of two million vaccinated people had severe allergic reactions. He also expressed concern over fertility issues, even though there is a greater risk of infertility from COVID- 19, which he has.”
Abdul- Jabbar, who played in the NBA from 1969- 89, was a 19- time AllStar and six- time Most Valuable Player. He is the game’s all- time leader in scoring with 38,387 points.