ORLANDO, FL — LeBron James addressed the media on Saturday afternoon from the infamous bubble, where he addressed some topics and conveyed them very clear publicly.
James won’t wear one of the NBA-approved social justice messages, instead he will continue to fight causes and raise awareness against racism, social injustice as he has in times before.
”I commend anyone that decides to put something on the back of their jersey. It’s just something that didn’t seriously resonate with my mission, with my goal.”
“I would have loved to have a say-so on what would have went on the back of my jersey,” James explained. ”I had a couple of things in mind, but I wasn’t part of that process, which is ok. … Everything that I do has a purpose, has a meaning. I don’t need to have something on the back of my jersey for people to understand my mission or know what I’m about and what I’m here to do.”
The NBA and NBPA agreed on a series of slogans that players have the choice of wearing on the back of their jersey during the restart of the season.
James has been one the most aware athletes and recently joined other NBA and WNBA players with a voter right campaign, to ensure that everyone in the Black and other minority communities can exercise their right to vote.
“It’s great that a lot of people’s ears are opening. A lot of people are understanding, a lot of people are recognizing. A lot of people still don’t get it, and a lot of people are still afraid to talk about the racism that goes on in America, especially for our people. … But we have some ears, and we will continue to push the envelope and let everyone know that we are human as well.”
James helped promote the message “More Than An Athlete” which he also expressed he doesn’t want to be used just for his abilities. James wants to continue to showcase that athletes from any sport have the power to use their voices, minds, and ingenuity to make powerful moves in society.
Anthony Davis also expressed he will be wearing his last name on his jersey as well. Lakers center JaVale McGee will wear “Respect Us” on the back of his jersey.
James’ goal on the court is to win the championship and bring the trophy to Los Angeles, giving the franchise it’s 17th title.
The Lakers will continue to run daily practices inside the Bubble in Orlando until they begin the restart of the season on July 30 against the Los Angeles Clippers.
