The NBA continues a dialogue with its players regarding social issues and the decisions by athletes to kneel during the national anthem, which began with Colin Kaepernick. However, one of the more outspoken stars, Russell Westbrook, as of now, will not commit to such a gesture in protest of the police shootings which have sparked public outrage and protests across the country.
Westbrook asked if he’ll take a knee for the anthem this year: “As of right now, no.”
Westbrook’s leaving a lot of room for movement in this stance. “As of right now” obviously says that he could change his mind, and there’s always the possibility that his protest could take the form of another symbolic gesture, as some NFL players have taken to raising their right fist.
Westbrook is likely to be honest and outspoken on the issue if he feels he needs to, but the situation is complicated. Oklahoma and its fans are resoundingly conservative, and the reaction there will be different than it would be for other players in other cities. That likely won’t alter Westbrook’s approach — he’s never been known to be a guy who cares much about criticism — but it does factor into the context of the situation.
But for right now, Westbrook will not be kneeling for the national anthem.
Courtesy: CBS Sports
