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RALEIGH — In a new PSA released Thursday by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, North Carolina NCAA men’s and women’s basketball coaches have come together to urge everyone to take their shot against COVID-19. They talk about why they personally chose to get vaccinated and how that helps to protect others.

North Carolina State University men’s basketball head coach Kevin Keatts says his trust in science guides his support for COVID-19 vaccines. “I trust the vaccines and the scientists who developed vaccines to defeat COVID-19,” Keatts said.

University of North Carolina head coach Roy Williams seconds that trust. “I believe in our scientists and took the vaccine to protect myself and others, and to live longer,” Williams said.

Duke University men’s basketball head coach Mike Krzyzewski and his wife were vaccinated in February. Krzyzewski describes his gratitude in knowing they and others are protected.

Charlotte Smith, head coach of the women’s basketball at Elon University, says it’s important she and other coaches use their offensive and defensive prowess in the fight to end COVID-19. “Get in the game, get off the sidelines and get vaccinated,” Smith said. “Take the torch and be the example by doing your part to protect the community.”

High Point University men’s basketball head coach Tubby Smith says getting vaccinated is a responsibility everyone carries to protect themselves and loved ones: “It’s paramount that we’re all vaccinated to protect each other.”

Wake Forest’s head men’s basketball coach Steve Forbes reminds people the 3Ws remain important to preventing COVID-19 spread. “We’re going to get through this, but until then, we have to continue to wear our masks and practice social distancing,” Forbes said.

Their collective advice: “You have a spot. Take your shot.” North Carolinians can find their spot to take their shot at YourSpotYourShot.nc.gov or by calling 1-888-675-4567.