Houston Rockets’ general manager Daryl Morey’s infamous tweet led to the NBA losing eleven Chinese business partners and the Chinese Basketball Association cutting ties with Rockets. Also, many political figures, including President Trump, spoke against the NBA and commissioner Adam Silver’s stance. Now, the tensions between parties have intensified.
On October 14, Los Angeles Lakers’ star LeBron James addressed Morey’s tweet. James stated Morey was “misinformed” about the ongoing Hong Kong protest. He felt Morey did not think about the “ramifications” of his stance. Many became outraged about James’ views. Many believe he was more concerned about his deal with Nike and his finances rather than human rights. On October 15, James posted two tweets to clarify his comments.
Let me clear up the confusion. I do not believe there was any consideration for the consequences and ramifications of the tweet. I’m not discussing the substance. Others can talk About that.
— LeBron James (@KingJames) October 15, 2019
My team and this league just went through a difficult week. I think people need to understand what a tweet or statement can do to others. And I believe nobody stopped and considered what would happen. Could have waited a week to send it.
— LeBron James (@KingJames) October 15, 2019
However, his tweets did not help matters as #LeBronShames became a trending topic on Twitter. Also, protestors in Hong Kong decided to burn James’ jersey and voice their disappointment over his stance.
Hong Kong protesters slam LeBron James for comments about China, free speech https://t.co/LsukqStgei pic.twitter.com/TcKkc3p2Nw
— New York Post (@nypost) October 15, 2019
It seems James has caused irreversible damage to his celebrity status in Hong Kong. Some have called James a “hypocrite” and saying he’s “pro-communism.” Does he deserve the criticism? Should have James kept quiet on the Morey situation? Does this tarnish his legacy in the long-term?
LeBron James & China
LeBron James Gave His Opinion on Morey Only
In the interview, James spoke on just Morey and his tweet. James did not state whether he was for or against the protest. Many people have painted James as a sell-out over his comments. He was merely talking about Morey only and not China. He admitted he was not informed about the Hong Kong protest to speak on it. However, the public has already decided to shame James for now.
LeBron’s Legacy Takes a Hit
Unfortunately, James’ legacy will take an unexpected hit. With him choosing to criticize Morey, it makes him look bad. Morey sided with the protestors but James questioned his motives. That questioning has been spun into James not being of the people and is looking out for his own interests. The comments are in poor timing as the NBA season will tip off very soon with the Lakers taking part in opening night. Unless opinions sway, James could be booed in every arena. It is an unfortunate situation for James, who has a track record of community engagement and has risked his legacy to side with the people before. This situation leads many to wonder about whether an athlete should take a stance on any social or political topics.
The Social Responsibility of Athletes
Many people want to see star athletes take on tough stances. Many believe star athletes like James have the power of influence that could lead to change. However, whenever an athlete chooses to take a stance, there are many who will rip him or her for it. James has been criticized for his stance on social oppression and police brutality of African-Americans. Last year, journalist Laura Ingraham said he should “shut up and dribble.” Many political figures echo the same sentiments. Ironically, many of those same people look to James to speak against China. James does not know about how the Chinese government operates. He and other athletes should not speak on anything that they do not know about. We should not look for athletes nor any celebrity to represent an idea if they are not informed.
Full LeBron James Interview:
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