NBA players kneel during national anthem in support of Black Lives Matter

NBA players took their peaceful protests to another level Thursday, kneeling during the national anthem in an act of solidarity as they continue to champion social justice movements.

All players of both the Utah Jazz-New Orleans Pelicans and Los Angeles Lakers-Clippers games got down on their knees and locked arms throughout the playing of the anthem.

NBA legend and basketball Hall of Famer Bill Russell himself praised the act.

The league has made efforts to highlight social justice statements, putting “Black Lives Matter” text on their official game courts.

Players were also allowed to change surnames at the back of their jerseys to statements of their choice, like “Say Her Name,” “Justice Now,” and “Peace.”