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TIMING IS EVERYTHING


NBA legend Oscar Robertson said the following about players, both white and black, speaking up about social inequalities and other social issues.

"I mean, what do you want players to do? Shut up and dribble? I think it's time for them to say what they want to say about life and about politics and things about the street and whatnot. And about education.

They're a lot of players donating money back into different colleges. But it seems that what we have today is a system where you don't want players to say anything at all." 

(Source: http://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/23909645/oscar-robertson-happy-see-athletes-take-stance-calls-white-athletes-do-same)

Your favorite player is going to be in the limelight at some time utilizing their sport as a platform for the issue they are passionate about in life. There is not going to be any way around knowing the stance of your player on many things, but especially one or two things.

And oh, how there are a plethora of issues or causes to get behind or support! The genres or causes range from political issues to environmental to social to racial to religious, and female issues. Everyone of these and more have the cry of respect and equality in the world and in sport. But should we place a muzzle on the athlete - at least while they are playing their sport?

There is the idea that - yes, as a supporter of the team through my money (tickets, clothing, etc), NBA players are for entertainment purposes only. I did not come to a game or follow a player to hear about the world's woes once again. Sports, like movies should be an escape from the negativity of the world, even if it is for a moment.

Unfortunately, inequalities and social issues are found everywhere, even in sports. It is here that athletes should have the privilege and right to voice their displeasure and offer possible solutions to the community. A proper outlet is needed so we are entertained, they get their needs met and their causes are known.

Perhaps if they are asked directly in their post game interview or on site at their cause's main event - then it would be appropriate to voice their passion on an issue. I believe in Ecclesiastes 3:1 - "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens:". There is a time for this and a time for that; a time for speaking up about anything and Timing Is Everything.

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