NBA Drops Powerhouse Black Lives Matter Ad Demanding Social Justice

Some of the NBA’s biggest stars hit the streets to condemn the brutal killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Rayshard Brooks and other persons of color in this PSA from the league that dropped during its ESPN schedule release show on Friday night:

Reigning NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, Malcolm Brogdon and Jaylen Brown, among other players, appear in the minute-long spot, shown marching in recent protests and demanding social justice.

Over such images, this text appears: “The truth is racism is everywhere. The truth is silence is not an option. The truth is we need to do better. We will promote equality. We will push for change. Because the truth is BLACK LIVES MATTER.”

Jac Ross’ insistent R&B track “It’s OK to Be Black” drives the message home.

 

 

 

 

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Much love to the good folks over @NBA for the love and support! The truth is that not only do #BlackLivesMatter — but #ITSOKTOBEBLACK ✊?✊?✊?

A post shared by Jac Ross (@jacross) on Jun 26, 2020 at 6:20pm PDT

Last week, NBA commissioner Adam Silver said he is working with the players’ association “on a shared goal that the season restart leads to collective action towards combating systematic racism and promoting social justice.” At present, the plan calls for resuming play July 31 in Orlando.

Silver also pledged “to increase Black representation in all positions across the NBA and its teams, ensure greater inclusion of Black-operated businesses across NBA business activities, and the formation of an NBA foundation to expand educational and economic development opportunities across the Black community.”

What’s more, it appears that players will be allowed to put social justice statements on the backs of their jerseys in a move coordinated with Nike.