:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/67337358/1205396358.jpg.0.jpg)
Out of all of the four major North American sports leagues, the NBA is the most active when it comes to combatting social justice issues.
Several NBA superstars are using their voices and platform to try and initiate changes in the system. Players were active in joining protests against racial inequality and police brutality after George Floyd’s killing by Minneapolis police officers. The league is using its time in Orlando, Florida, to help raise awareness about race issues in the country.
Players have meaningful statements on the back of their jerseys, are demonstrating during the national anthem before games in the bubble, and postponed two days of playoff games following the police-involved shooting of Black man, Jacob Blake.
Golden State Warriors’ superstar Steph Curry joined CBS’ Sunday Morning Show and was asked by Kelefa Sanneh if he will consider kneeling for the anthem during the 2020-21 season.
“I believe so. I applaud every single one of them for doing it, and for doing it in unity.”
Curry joined teammates at a march in June following Floyd’s death. He and his fellow Splash Brothers are vocal about social justice issues, so it’s not surprising to see him lean towards demonstrating next year.
Steph Curry here at Lake Merritt with fellow Warriors Juan Toscano-Anderson and Damion Lee for the "Walking In Unity" event. pic.twitter.com/mYLsPCnquj
— Wes Goldberg (@wcgoldberg) June 3, 2020
It will be interesting to see how this impacts the league next season. League ratings are down since restarting the season, and some fans are citing the focus on political and social issues during the broadcast.
Does the fact that many NBA players are speaking about and demonstrating against these issues during the games make you not want to watch?
On to some links:
Former NBA player Channing Frye played in back-to-back NBA Finals against the Dubs. Despite seeing Curry up-close and personal, he still claims he would rather play with Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard. (NBC Sports)
If the Milwaukee Bucks flame out of the NBA playoffs, will reigning MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo balk at re-signing with the team? Fansided’s Christian Evans says if the Greek Freak wants out, Andrew Wiggins will be the key piece for the Warriors to acquire Antetokounmpo.
The Dubs will be back on the court for a mini-camp in two weeks. Head coach Steve Kerr explains what he is looking for when the Warriors are finally able to hold full-team workouts. (NBC Bay Area)