In an unprecedented move, the NBA and NBPA are reportedly planning to allow players to change the names on their jerseys as a way to promote social justice.
Per Shams Charania of The Athletic:
The NBA and NBPA are planning to allow players to replace the last name on their jerseys with statement on social justice, sources tell @TheAthleticNBA @Stadium.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 28, 2020
The domestic soccer league in the United Kingdom, the English Premier League, was one of the first professional leagues to adapt this movement, and the NBA has decided to follow suit. In England, all the players replaced the names on the back of their shirts with the statement “Black Lives Matter” in support of the fight against global systemic racism.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CBoO3jRFhFO/
Moreover, multiple reports state that the NBPA and the players are currently already in contact with Nike with regards to the potential changes they want to make on their respective jerseys:
Sources: The NBPA currently is working with the NBA and Nike to give players the option of replacing their last name on their jersey with a statement on social justice. More details to come soon.
— Brad Turner (@BA_Turner) June 28, 2020
NBPA sent players initial details on the plan tonight, stating it is working with the league and Nike. NBA and the players union have been discussing various ways to allow players to express social justice issues in season restart. https://t.co/vw1RW2Z6Vj
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 28, 2020
Earlier, concerns were raised about the NBA restart posing as a distraction from the social issues that have gripped the nation. Players, such as LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers, have responded to this potential issue by saying that the NBA actually serves as a great venue to carry on with this cause. This new development serves as testament to this fact. It also proves that the NBA and the NBPA are very serious about showing their support for the Black Lives Matter movement.
The season officially restarts on July 30 in the Florida bubble, and it will be interesting to see how players will creatively use this platform to raise their voice and fight for what they believe in.
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