Basketball star LeBron James lashed out at television host Laura Ingraham for stating that he should “shut up and dribble”, rather than comment on political and social issues.
Mr. James and Golden State Warriors forward Kevin Durant had talked about race relations in the country, and had also criticised the Donald Trump administration, on a recent show. This prompted Ms. Ingraham to mention that Mr. James should stick to playing the sport.
“When I first saw her video, I laughed. First of all, I didn’t know who she was, but now I do. We will not shut up and dribble. I mean too much to society, to the youth, and to so many kids who feel like they don’t have a way out. The kids need someone to lead them out of the situation that they are in,” he said.
He recalled his tough childhood circumstances to reiterate his point. He added that professional athletes feel strongly about social issues, much like anyone else in the country.
Fellow All-Star Stephen Curry lent his support to James. “...Lebron, Durant, and every single NBA athlete is much more than just basketball players. These guys raise resources, funds, and awareness in their communities, trying to make the world a better place,” Mr. Curry said.
