Stephen Curry is one of the most influential athletes in the world. The four-time NBA champion has not only been the main factor in changing the game of basketball, but he often speaks out against injustice. His Golden State Warriors head coach, Steve Kerr doesn’t shy away from speaking his mind either.
That was the case also when an inmate on death row needed support. The Warriors duo were vocal about the trial and felt justice needed to be served. Eventually, their support resulted in Governor Stitt commuting Jones’ sentence to life without parole less than four hours before his scheduled execution.
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In October 2021, Bay Area pastor Michael McBride reached out to Steve Kerr regarding the case of a death-row inmate, Julius Jones. Jones was incarcerated in 1999 after being convicted of murdering an Oklahoma City man. Jones received support from various international figures.
Stephen Curry even issued a video statement expressing his support of Jones. He said, “It?s Stephen Curry and I stand with Julius and his whole family and pray that justice is served for our brother and that he?s a free man soon.”
Meanwhile, the Golden State Warriors invited Jones’ family to watch a game. Kerr said, “There is definitely an awareness level of what?s happening. So, we are supporting his family, some of whom will be in attendance tonight“. Kerr even took pictures with Jones’ sister while wearing shirts urging ‘Justice for Julius’.
The support from Stephen Curry and Steve Kerr proved to be decisive
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After receiving support from Curry, Kerr, and various other celebrities, Jones was spared from execution. More than six million people had signed a petition supporting Jones’ case. Kerr had previously stated, “It?s something we feel strongly about and support.”
The Warriors would go on to win the NBA championship later that season. Steph Curry shined in the postseason run and he was named the Finals MVP for the first time in his career. Steve Kerr won the championship for the ninth time in his distinguished career.
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This was another case of support from NBA entities proving vital in a trial. There’s no doubt that Curry and Kerr will continue to fight for justice.