PORTLAND, OR (KPTV) – The Portland Trail Blazers prepare to pack and head to Orlando to play in the NBA restart at the end of the month.
Guard CJ McCollum initially voted not to play, but changed his mind.
The team voted about a month ago and, at the time, McCollum was one of the players not ready to hit the field in the midst of the pandemic. McCollum said on Monday that further information from medical professionals and the NBA helped change his mind.
During a press conference on Monday morning, McCollum explained that he has no children at home or vulnerable elderly people who weigh on his decision. He said that after discussions with his family, he felt it was in his best interest to play.
“We have progressed to get more information, circumstances, situations, tests, everything that is a bit set up now, there is more information,” said McCollum. “But at the time, based on what was given to me, I didn’t feel comfortable playing.”
CJ McCollum. KPTV image.
Specifically, McCollum said he has a better understanding of the virus and how the NBA plans to take on the tests inside the bubble at the Walt Disney World Resort, where the 22 teams will play.
McCollum said that not all of his teammates are on board and some will not travel to Florida, including striker Trevor Ariza. Each team will play eight games for a place in the playoffs. The first Blazer game will take place on July 31st.
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