Black Lives Matter: NBA, Players plan jersey surname change for social justice statements

The NBA and the NBA Players Association are working towards being able to change surnames on jerseys for social justice statements.

NBPA sent players initial details on the plan tonight, stating it is working with the league and Nike. NBA and the players union have been discussing various ways to allow players to express social justice issues in season restart. https://t.co/vw1RW2Z6Vj

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 28, 2020

This is part of the NBA’s constant support to its athletes’ freedom of expression and right to participate in social activism.

Deaths of a handful of African-Americans at the hands of police officers over the last month sparked NBA players to join protests across the United States.

Some NBA players like Kyrie Irving and WNBA players are even sitting out the rest of the season to focus on participating in movements and being part of the solution.

Famous players like LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony, Chris Paul, Dwyane Wade, and even the late Kobe Bryant have always been vocal when it comes to social issues, and they have used the NBA as a platform to raise awareness and discussions.

This season is no different, and it is a welcome sight for the league and its constituents to continue planning for social activism to have a place in the league.