LOS ANGELES — After many conversions that should’ve been addressed, Clippers forward Lou Williams made his voice heard loud and clear on a variety of issues that included racism, oppression, injustice and how the players’ voices will be heard. Williams inquired about if sports would be played, how would the players voices be heard on various issues that concern the Black community.
On a zoom call with many media members, head coach Doc Rivers addressed the issue if Williams, who had contemplated rejoining the team, will show up in Orlando at the Walt Disney Wide World Of Sports facility.
“Obviously up until we get on the plane, anything can happen,” Rivers said. “But I do expect Lou to be with us. I would be very surprised if he’s not.”
According to Rivers all players on the team are scheduled to travel on July 8 to the Orlando facility. Williams is a major presence on the team and also one of the Clippers top scorers, and will be needed if the team looks to achieve their first ever championship this year.
Clippers owner Steve Ballmer stated that he would support any player who decided to speak out in favor of social justice. Rivers expressed how proud he was of his players publicly standing up against oppression and racism.
After Williams made mention publicly last week that he was 50/50 on his return, due to the fact of how players would have a voice and how playing games could be a distraction from serious issues such as racism and police brutality. The league later decided to paint “Black Lives Matter” on all of the courts at the facility, and allow players to represent their causes on the backs of their jerseys.
Williams has been sensational and consistent averaging 18.7 ppg and 5.7 apg this season for the Clippers.
The Clippers will have a short training camp as they prepare for their return game on July 30 against the Los Angeles Lakers.
