“No More Excuses Now”: Lakers Player Sends a Stern Message to NFL Regarding Colin Kaepernick

On May 25, 2020, an incident took place in Minneapolis, which in turn would shake the world with its aftermath. The alleged homicide of George Floyd has tarnished the reputation of the US police. As more people are stepping up for the cause, a Los Angeles Lakers player wants people to look back and nod to those who engaged in protests even before the death of Floyd. 

As we see on the news or read from the papers, racism has been a gigantic problem around the world. People from minority communities have been suffering for hundreds of years, wanting to break the chain and forge equality into society. As Floyd’s death has sparked widespread protests, major conglomerates are stepping up and voicing their substantial take against racism. 

Athletes from the NBA have been extremely active in participating in protests as well as expressing their comments on social media. The league as a whole stands together for justice ever since the protest broke out against police brutality and racial discrimination. 

Teams like the Los Angeles Lakers, Milwaukee Bucks, and several others have released official statements fighting against injustice. On the other hand, the NFL is the latest major league to collectively voice its concern on the issue. 

Lakers star has a message for the NFL

On Friday, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell released a statement on behalf of the league. “We, the National Football League, condemn racism and the systematic oppression of black people,” Goodell said in a video posted to social media. “We, the National Football League, admit we were wrong for not listening to NFL players earlier and encourage all to speak out and peacefully protest.”

As the league apologized for not listening to players earlier, it automatically resonates with Colin Kaepernick’s peaceful protest in 2016. The former San Franciso 49ers quarterback took a stand against racism by kneeling to the national anthem during games. Kaepernick’s voice has finally matched with the NFL in joining with him to condemn racial discrimination in the country. 

Moreover, LA Lakers forward Kyle Kuzma, upon watching the NFL’s statement, directed a tweet towards them. The 24-year-old called out the league for ignoring the voices of its players. Furthermore, he demanded justice for Kaepernick, who has remained a free agent ever since the controversy-filled 2016 season. 

“All these @NFL teams came out the woodwork to say they stand for black lives matter and racial inequality…I tell you @Kaepernick7 better be on a team next season if he wants to play no excuses now,” Kuzma wrote. 

Seeking justice for Kaepernick will be a priority in his mind. Apart from that, Kuzma will be aware of what’s set to unfold in his league next month. As the NBA returns with a new format, his Lakers team would be raring to go out on the court. The team has unfinished business to attend. Standing at the top of their conference table, the Los Angeles team is in the pursuit of their first championship since 2010.