There aren’t a lot of critiques made about Michael Jordan. But if there was one area that I recall people having an issue with Jordan, it dealt with his policy of never commenting on political or race matters. Many felt that Jordan’s influence was needed in those areas. It’s not that Jordan didn’t have an opinion on those topics, he was just conscious of how statements on those topics can create controversy.
In a March 31st article in The New Yorker, Lakers superstar Kobe Bryant takes the exact opposite approach when the subject of slain-Florida-teen Trayvon Martin was brought up. Kobe was asked his thoughts on the Miami Heat’s show of solidarity at that time posting a photo of the team wearing black hoodies like Martin wore the night he was murdered.
I understand the point Kobe was trying to make, but I don’t agree with it. I thought the case first and foremost was about a teenager killed. This statement is an example of what former NFL player Jim Brown was pointing to when he told talk show host, Arsenio Hall that Kobe is somewhat confused about culture.
The piece went on to mention that point as well. Controversy is something Kobe is used to, we’ll see how he rides this brewing storm out.
Travon Martin was wronged THATS my opinion and thats what I believe the FACTS showed. The system did not work #myopinion #tweetURthoughts
— Kobe Bryant (@kobebryant) March 27, 2014