NBA star Myles Turner has chosen “Respect Us” as his preferred jersey statement when the league restarts in Orlando this month.
Players have decided to wear NBA approved social awareness and racial injustice slogans on the back of their jerseys following the death of George Floyd.
Turner said he chose this message to emphasize the need for NBA fans to respect players for more than their athletic ability.
Speaking to via J. Michael of Indy Star, Turner said he wants to use his voice to change people’s opinions.
“We’re not just entertainment pieces, we’re more than athletes. We’re out here, we’re doing what we love, but it’s not who we are as people,” Turner said.
“I wasn’t exactly sure how I was going to use my voice, voice my opinions and the opinions of my people,” the Pacers center added.
WIBC host Tony Katz told listeners Wednesday he supports Turner using his platform for a cause.
Katz:
“I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that. I’m doing exactly the same thing. Different platforms, different passions, and different causes, but there is nothing wrong with using the platform you’ve earned to forward a cause you believe in.”
Click below to hear Tony’s full commentary.
(Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)
