Taking a knee during the singing of the National Anthem has been a common sight these days, especially in the NFL. It has been a way for players and coaches to show that they are against different social issues the United States is currently facing. Even professional athletes from other leagues have done it, and now, one of the NBA's legends has taken part in the act of protest as well.
Boston Celtics great, and 11-time champion Bill Russell took to his Twitter account on Monday to share a photo of himself taking a knee along with his medal of freedom, awarded by former President Barack Obama. Making it known that he is vocally opposing social injustices.
Proud to take a knee, and to stand tall against social injustice." #takeaknee #medaloffreedom #NFL #BillRussell #MSNBC pic.twitter.com/1MhinoAcW7
— TheBillRussell (@RealBillRussell) September 25, 2017
Russell is one of the most respected basketball players of all-time. His achievements as a player speak for how good he was, and also explains why he continues to be an influential figure in all of sports. His act will further encourage other legends like him, and current players, to take a stand and use their stature to raise awareness about different issues affecting the lives of many around the world.
More and more members of the sports community have been joining non-violent acts of protests, and it can be expected that demonstrations will also happen in the NBA, especially with the new season starting in a few weeks.
Russell's tweet not only proves that he's still aware of what the U.S. is currently going through, but also sends a strong message to all players not to shy away from making their thoughts known publicly, and use basketball as a platform to promote positive change.
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