I think it’s too early to tell what’s going to happen. Dwight’s agent said Dwight has not made a decision yet as to whether or not to play. Not being black, I can’t imagine what it’s like for black NBA players or everyday black people to be seeing and experiencing what’s happening on the streets and in the minds of America right now after years of seeing false hopes and failed promises of equality. If Dwight believes he can best serve the cause of his people by not playing, then who am I to say he is wrong. I do believe we are in the middle of one of the most transcendent years in the history of our country. The confluence of health, economic, and social crises have the power to create a new normal so different than anybody could have imagined a year ago.

I do think the issues and points black NBA players and others have raised are all valid. What’s happening goes way beyond sports. We’re talking starting to address 400 years of racial injustice which, if you’ll excuse the pun, trumps even a Lakers championship. I hope we will see the NBA and the players work together to find ways to respond to all of the concerns, to find common ground and consensus to give more power and support to BLM and still keep what has been the model for what has been the most progressive professional sport in the world the opportunity to finish its season and move into the future ethically and successfully. The NBA needs to give the players full support to promote BLM, to keep players safe from Covid-19, to minimize injury risks, and not to denigrate any player who decides not playing is best for him. They need to transform this problem into part of a great solution. Play games but keep your eye on the bigger picture. Use the power of the platform that they have to foster and encourage social change. I think in the end, the players and the league will come together and do exactly that.