NBA to resume games after player protest

The NBA on Friday announced steps it would take in support of social justice that includes forming a social justice coalition, converting team arenas into voting locations for the 2020 general election, and developing advertising that targets greater civic engagement in national and local elections.

This comes amid talks between NBA players, coaches, and team governors after players refused to take the court to shed light on racial inequality in the wake of the police shooting of Jacob Blake in Wisconsin.

Major sportswear brands Under Armour and Nike also voiced their support of NBA players this week.

Under Armour and actor Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson on Thursday postponed the launch of a new sneaker collaboration, and said in a statement:

"We support all of those in sport who are currently demanding societal change across the United States and the globe."

While Nike said it (quote) "stands in support of NBA and WNBA players and athletes across the sports community in their response to the senseless shooting of Jacob Blake."

Sports apparel company Adidas and sports beverage brand Gatorade also spoke up in support of the players.

NBA superstar LeBron James, who was famously told two years ago by a conservative commentator to "shut up and dribble," has emerged as a political force as issues of racial justice and voter suppression move to the forefront in the run-up to November’s presidential election.

James reacted angrily to the police shooting of Blake Sunday in Kenosha, Wisconsin, which sparked days of civil unrest, tweeting earlier in the week:

"F- THIS MAN!!!! WE DEMAND CHANGE. SICK OF IT,”

After a halt to NBA playoff games for three days, players have agreed to resume play starting Saturday.

James’ team the Los Angeles Lakers are one of several teams still vying for this year's NBA title.