TRUMPED: The sports world speaks out
The sports world watched in awe along with the rest of the globe as the race for the US Presidency came to its dramatic conclusion last week. Amidst one of the most tumultuous and controversial elections this country has ever seen, reactions to the results were fittingly emotional and varied.
The NFL and NBA are comprised of over two-thirds Black players. What’s more, coaches or executives who may not be able to understand the plights of these players first hand still understand them much better than many outside the sports world because they have spent so much time around people and in communities that have been affected by racism, classism and so on.
As a result, reactions from the two major in-season American sports to Trump’s election have, for the most part, been wrought with anger and dismay. Some dissenting voices expressed a desire to hope for and reserve judgment on our President-Elect, while others portrayed a disenchanted indifference to the whole election.
MLB is not in season, but for what it’s worth, the World Champion Chicago Cubs have reportedly reached out to President Obama and requested that they make their White House visit before his departure.
Stan Van Gundy, former NBA head coach
“Millions of Americans don’t think that racism and sexism disqualifies you to be our leader…we should be ashamed for what we stand for as the United States today.”
Colin Kaepernick, San Francisco 49ers quarterback
“To me, it was embarrassing to watch that these are our two candidates. Both are proven liars and it almost seems like they are trying to debate who is less racist. I’ve been very disconnected from the systematic oppression as a whole. So, for me, it’s another face that’s going to be the face of that system of oppression. To me, it didn’t really matter who went in there. The system still remains intact that oppresses people of color.”
Gregg Popovich, San Antonio Spurs head coach
“I’m a rich white guy and I’m sick to my stomach thinking about it. I can’t imagine being a Muslim right now, or a woman, or an African-American, a Hispanic or a handicapped person — how disenfranchised they might feel.”
Brandon Marshall, NY Jets wide receiver
“We have a flawed man leading our country, and I think that’s a good thing because we try to put certain people in certain positions on a pedestal and we expect perfection. That’s not the case. There’s only one perfect man who walked this earth. It gives hope to those who are flawed. People get second chances. I hope he does a great job.”
Conor McGregor, Global UFC Icon
“I just could not give a b******s, the whole thing is just weird to me. I don’t think anything is going to change.”
Doc Rivers, Los Angeles Clippers head coach
“The election didn’t go the way I wanted it to go. I personally know Donald Trump. I’ve golfed with him and I know him. I don’t think there’s anyone who runs for president that wants to do bad, I really don’t. So, you know, he won. My take on it; let’s give him a chance and see what he can do. You’ve got to give him a shot.”
Vincent Kompany, Manchester City F.C. defender
“WTF….let’s put all the idiots around the world in power and see what happens, next generation reality TV. #sadworld”
LeBron James, Cleveland Cavaliers forward
“Yes we all wanna lace up the boots, put on the hard hats and strike but that’s not the answer. Love, genuine LOVE and FAITH will be the only thing that can get us through this. Minorities and Women please know that this isn’t the end, it’s just a very challenging obstacle that we will overcome!”
Tom Brady, New England Patriots quarterback
“I talked to my wife. She said I can’t talk about politics anymore. I think that’s a good decision.”
Brandon McCarthy, Los Angeles Dodgers Starting Pitcher
“Tonight’s result affects me none because I’m rich, white and male. Yet, it’ll be a long time until I’m able to sleep peacefully.”
DeAngelo Hall, Washington Redskins cornerback
“I actually like Donald Trump the biz man. I guess we have 4 years to see what Donald the politician has to offer. Congrats Donald.”
SPORTS EDITOR
Zach Joachim
Zach is a junior pursuing a dual degree in print journalism and English. A proud Norfolk-ian, he enjoys long walks on the beach, English literature of the romantic period and anything pertaining to Harry Potter or baseball. Zach an avid Red Sox and Patriots fan who can usually be found working at the Student Media Center or running along the James.
Facebook | joachimz@commonwealthtimes.org
