LeBron James has always been one of the voices in the NBA that has been outspoken when it comes to social justice.
He’s been one of the NBA’s leading voices against racial injustice, police brutality, voter suppression and more. He hasn’t been afraid to speak out on these issues when he’s needed to.
James has been criticized by many for that outspokenness when it comes to social justice issues around the country. And soccer star Zlatan Ibrahimovic is the latest critic.
In an interview on Thursday, Ibrahimovic said that sports players like James should avoid getting involved in politics. Athletes should “stay out of it,” he said.
Of course, James had a poignant response when asked about Ibrahimovic’s comments on Friday. He absolutely was not having it.
.@KingJames talks with @LakersReporter about his defensive effort (4 STL, 3 BLK) and what getting Dennis back means for the #LakeShow. pic.twitter.com/UAEsz7x3PZ
— Spectrum SportsNet (@SpectrumSN) February 27, 2021
“I would never shut up about things that’s wrong…I preach about my people and I preach about equality, social injustice, racism, systematic voter suppression, things that go on in our community. Because I was a part of my community at one point and seeing the things that was going on and I know what’s going on still because I have a group of 300-plus kids at my school that’s going through the same thing and they need a voice. And I’m their voice…There’s no way I will ever just stick to sports because I understand how this platform … how powerful my voice is.”
Very well said.
