Nationwide — It’s not just about the NFL anymore! Three NBA champions have publicly spoken out against President Donald Trump’s recent derogatory comments directed towards Black athletes. When he referred to Black athletes as “sons of b****es” and then uninvited Stephen Curry to the White House, it set off a firestorm of backlash from both professional football and basketball players!
U bum @StephenCurry30 already said he ain’t going! So therefore ain’t no invite. Going to White House was a great honor until you showed up!
Kobe Bryant, who retired last year from the Los Angeles Lakers, also tweeted:
A #POTUS whose name alone creates division and anger. Whose words inspire dissension and hatred can’t possibly “Make America Great Again”
Then, Michael Jordan, who is the owner of the Charlotte Hornetts, released a very professional statement to the Charlotte Observer, saying:
One of the fundamental rights this country is founded on was freedom of speech, and we have a long tradition of nonviolent, peaceful protest. Those who exercise the right to peacefully express themselves should not be demonized or ostracized.
At a time of increasing divisiveness and hate in this country, we should be looking for ways to work together and support each other and not create more division.
I support Commissioner Adam Silver, the NBA, its players and all those who wish to exercise their right to free speech.
Although each of their messages were worded differently, the three championship basketball players were basically saying the same thing – that they do not agree with what President Trump said nor his tone.