Boomers star Patty Mills has reached out with a message of support to Australia's Olympians as they deal with the prospect of a delayed Games.
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The triple Olympian applauded the Australian Olympic Committee's "proactive" move on Monday to prepare for a 2021 Games and call for a delay of the proposed July-August event in Tokyo because of the coronavirus.
San Antonio Spurs NBA guard Mills has endeared Australians with his off-court efforts too, visiting bushfire-impacted regions during the recent All-Star break and spearheading a project to provide clean drinking water to remote communities.
One of the contenders to carry the flag at Tokyo's opening ceremony, Mills did his best to rally his fellow Olympians as they came to grips with the situation.
"Just like every Olympic athlete around the world I'm absolutely gutted this crisis has affected the largest international sporting event in the world," he said in a video he posted on Twitter.
"Do not be discouraged by this adversity; as an Olympic athlete your goal remains the same; to represent our country the best way possible and strive to be your very best.
"I understand every athlete has their own journey ... but the commitment to our country and this team remains consistent.
"Just regroup, regather and adjust your preparation plans, stay positive and stay strong and lean on each other for support if needed."
Mills has been in isolation in the United States since the NBA was sensationally shut down following Utah Jazz star Rudy Gobert's positive test nearly two weeks ago.
"Stay at home and keep your distance; the better we can control this virus the better we can look after each other," Mills said.
Australian Associated Press
