Carmelo on Michael Jordan statement: ‘Brilliant and about time’
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Carmelo Anthony applauded Hornets owner and NBA legend Michael Jordan’s decision to comment on police violence in America on Monday.
Jordan, who has not traditionally been outspoken about social issues, joined a growing chorus of athletes who have spoken up about violence against African-Americans.
“As a proud American, a father who lost his own dad in a senseless act of violence, and a black man, I have been deeply troubled by the deaths of African-Americans at the hands of law enforcement and angered by the cowardly and hateful targeting and killing of police officers,” Jordan wrote.
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Anthony, when asked about Jordan—who will also donate $1 million each to the Institute for Community-Police Relations and the NAACP Legal Defense Fund—said the statement was “brilliant and about time.” Anthony, who himself has been outspoken about issues of violence, commended Jordan after hosting a community meeting in Los Angeles to discuss police shootings.
Anthony and Jordan share a business relationship, as the Knicks star is an endorser of Jordan’s shoe brand.
In addition to his community meeting, Anthony recently shared the stage at ESPN’s ESPY awards with Dwyane Wade, LeBron James and Chris Paul, making a collective plea to other athletes to make an impact in reducing violence.
On the court, Anthony will be representing the United States at the Rio Olympics.
