2:53 p.m. PT – Jonathan Isaac just spoke to the media, where he was asked to explain why he didn’t kneel down or wear a BLM shirt … and he said this was largely related to his religious beliefs.
Isaac said he believed black life mattered … but did not believe the kneeling demonstration or the BLM shirt “went hand in hand with black life support.”
Isaac went on to explain how the teachings of Jesus Christ influenced his life and decisions … and insists after much thought, the kneeling demonstration was not for him.
“I think when you look around racism is not the only thing that plagues our society, that plagues our nation, that plagues our world, and I want to come together on this message that we want overcome not only racism, but everything that afflicts as a society. The answer is the gospel. “
We think Isaac is trying to say that his priority is to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ, above all else … including the Black Lives Matter movement.
Orlando Magic Power forward Jonathan Isaac became the first NBA player to stand up during the national anthem after the season resumed … deciding not to kneel and wear a Black Lives Matter jersey.
The coaches, referees and players of the league – from James lebron at Zion Williamson – used the hymn displays to raise awareness as games resume in Orlando … a move supported by the NBA commish Adam silver.
Isaac became the first player to choose to show up as the anthem was played ahead of the Magic’s game against the Brooklyn Nets on Friday … while the rest of the players and squad staff got together. knee.
Of note – Silver says everyone will have the opportunity to kneel during the hymn without consequence … despite a league rule requiring players to stand.
The same goes for anyone who wishes to stand up – no one is saying that players MUST kneel either.
So far, Jonathan has not commented on his decision to appear publicly – as the game is currently being played. But, when it does, we’ll update here.
Charles barkley spoke of Thursday’s protests during TNT’s “Inside The NBA”, saying, “The national anthem means different things to different people.”
“I’m glad these guys are together. If people don’t kneel down they’re not a bad person. I want that to be perfectly clear. I’m glad they had unity, but if we have a guy who doesn’t. I want to kneel down because the anthem has something for him, he shouldn’t be vilified. “
The Magic released a statement in support of the protest, saying, “The DeVos family and the Orlando Magic organization fully support Magic players who have chosen to leverage their professional platform to send a peaceful message and powerful condemning fanaticism, racial injustice and the misuse of police violence, especially against people of color. “
“We are proud of the positive impact our players have had and we join them in the belief that sport can bring people together – bridging gaps and promoting inclusion, equality, diversity and unity . “
Originally Posted – 1:08 PM PT