NBA’s Warriors show solidarity on, off court

Published 7:30 am Wednesday, June 14, 2017

The Golden State Warriors won its second NBA title in three years on Monday, after routing the Lebron James led Cleveland Cavaliers 129-120. The series was filled with superstars from both teams that shined on the brightest stage. Lebron once again showed why he is the best player in the NBA, averaging a triple double in the Finals, the first player to ever do so. Steph Curry showed why he is a two-time MVP. But perhaps no other player shined more than Kevin Durant.

Durant averaged 35 points in the Finals and was named NBA Finals MVP. It was his first NBA title. He celebrated with his teammates and coaching staff, but saved his biggest hug for his mother, the person he promised as an eight year old to reach and win basketball’s biggest prize-– an NBA championship.

After the game, it is customary champagne popping and celebrations everywhere, and of course the press conferences.

I’m sure its fun when you win, and a nightmare breakdown of analysis when you lose. In a few days the Warriors will hold its championship parade and fans from all over will be able to bask in the team’s greatness.

A few months later a visit to the White House in Washington, D.C will follow. But that may not be the case for the 2017 champions. Per reports of news outlets, the team has unanimously decided to bypass the visit. As of publication, the Golden State Warriors front office has not released an official statement concerning the matter but all sources point to the decision as true.

This doesn’t come as a surprise to me. Earlier this year Curry took to task Under Armour owner Kevin Plank for calling Trump “an asset” to the country. Curry is one of the premier athletes with Under Armour and serves as a face of the franchise.

Warrior head coach Steve Kerr even called Trump’s leadership into question due to the 45th president’s insensitive and divisive remarks, and lack of accountability.

The first team to visit the White House was the New England Patriots back in April.

Many players were absent, noticably Tom Brady (due to family matters), and Dante Hightower, who at the time already visited the White House with the Alabama Crimson Tide. Hightower told ESPN, “Been there, done that”.

If the report is true, I like that the Warriors decided as a team to not make the trip. It shows solidarity. Teamwork is not just on the court.