Outspoken Boston Celtics big man Enes Kanter recently made a 20-hour trip from Chicago to Boston to participate in local demonstrations about the killing of George Floyd — but also to prepare for the resumption of the suspended 2019-20 NBA season
The protests and return to action alike necessitate testing, given Kanter’s trip back from Illinois — where he was sheltering in place — put him at elevated risk for contracting COVID-19, and his participation in the protests did as well.
So, being the responsible teammate and person that he is, the Turkish big man made a point of getting tested again for the virus behind the pandemic.
All Celtics players were tested after being exposed to Rudy Gobert and the Utah Jazz after Gobert’s positive results, and players hoping to play in the resumed season will also need to demonstrate they are clear of an active infection.
Kanter did just that, sharing a video of what the swab test itself used for detecting the virus is like on his Instagram.
“Put your head up a little bit,” instructs a healthcare provider off-camera save for their hand. “Okay, let’s do this,” followed Kanter, with hesitant enthusiasm.
The healthcare provider inserted a long, Q-tip like swab into the Zurich native’s nostril, going well into Kanter’s sinus cavity as he winced in obvious if not extreme discomfort.
Stevens, Grousbeck release statements supporting protests, players https://t.co/diY1OCdN9E via @thecelticswire
— The Celtics Wire (@TheCelticsWire) June 5, 2020
“I hate this,” he proclaimed upon the swab’s removal, “my eyes are watering.”
“That’s it?” he asked after collecting himself a bit, swiveling to address his test administerer. “That is it,” they replied to his relief. “I think I’m ready to play now,” quipped Kanter.
If you have been protesting — or have any reason to believe you might be infected — and have the ability to do so, consider getting tested as well.
It could save lives.
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