LeBron James’ ‘equality’ shoes are the NBA’s best peaceful protest
The NBA opening basketball game between the Boston Celtics and Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday evening had many intrigued about how the league would handle the ongoing protests from the NFL over police brutality and racial injustice.
Just before tip-off, we saw how the two teams handled the national anthem and other peaceful protests. One strong statement was made with footwear.
SEE ALSO: Leaked NBA memo instructs that players, coaches must stand during the national anthem
Cavaliers star LeBron James laced into Nikes emblazoned with the all gold capitalized phrase, "Equality," across the back of the shoes.
LeBron’s #NBAKicks! pic.twitter.com/hSkH4rVZgy
— NBA (@NBA) October 17, 2017
The subtle, but noticeable, nod to the origins of former 49er quarterback Colin Kaepernick's kneeling protest, were recognized.
Check Lebrons's shoes #equality
— 🇮🇩 (@NVkicks) October 18, 2017
Instead of kneeling during the anthem, @KingJames laces up his shoes bearing the word “EQUALITY.”
More of this. pic.twitter.com/OXZa0Q4RoD— Justin Bradford (@JustiinBradford) October 18, 2017
Looks like Lebron having equality on his shoes is the only protest they gonna participate in
— David (@funeral623) October 17, 2017
At Tuesday's game, during the national anthem, the Cavaliers linked arms, while the Celtics bowed their heads. No one kneeled. An NBA leaked memo from last month had instructed players and coaches to stand during the patriotic moment.
Cavs link arms for the anthem, which is sung by a black Navy sailor. pic.twitter.com/1vY0AzYGBS
— Jesse Washington (@jessewashington) October 17, 2017
@cavs linking arms during the national anthem. ✊🏽✊🏽✊🏽
— Ava Moss (@AVAcado95) October 17, 2017
Aside from James' shoe protest, the athlete has previously spoken out against President Trump (we can't ever forget "U bum") and he recently stood up for protesters.
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