Deshaun Watson Wants Out Of Houston: The Series Of Events Leading To A Trade

PHILADELPHIA, PA - DECEMBER 23: Deshaun Watson #4 of the Houston Texans walks off the field after the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on December 23, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Eagles defeated the Texans 32-30. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)

By: Prince Hakeem

Throughout our lives from an early age, we’re socialized and encouraged to believe that those in positions of power always have our best interest at heart. Whether it’s parents, bosses, or even the police, there’s an expectation to operate in good faith within these social contracts. While we may not understand or even agree with some of the methods or decisions made, the general consensus is that everything is done for the greater good. This usually is true…until it isn’t.

When organizations and entities turn around and end up operating in bad faith or outright lying, it’s a big wake up call to reality. At that point, it’s time to take these organizations and institutions not at their word, but rather by their actions displayed and move accordingly. As the late great Maya Angelou once famously asserted, “When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time.”

Unfortunately in the case of 25-year-old Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson, he’s now having to learn this the hard. It’s taken a couple of instances for him to believe who the Texans are and now he’s involved in an on-going dispute with the team. Watson’s good faith in the organization has been ruined and is now trying to move in his best interest. Sadly the current story surrounding Deshaun now serves as a cautionary tale, particularly for those who operate at the intersections of being black within a high profile and professional position. 

How It Happened.

These series of events didn’t just happen overnight. It’s been culmination of several years worth of frustration and let down for Watson. Most recently, it started in March when former Texans head coach and general manager Bill O’Brien traded Deshaun’s former Clemson teammate and best wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins. He was traded to the Arizona Cardinals for running back David Johnson and a couple of future draft picks. Watson, being the franchise quarterback, was made aware of the deal after it happened. While frustrated of course, Watson moved forward with leading the team. Months later, the frustration came back with more intensity when Texans management went back on a “good faith” promise made to Watson in November 2020. 

Deshaun Watson signals for a first down against the Miami Dolphins

A month after Bill O’Brien was fired, Texans CEO Cal McNair had dinner with Watson to discuss the future of the team. McNair, the son of late Texans owner Bob McNair, expressed to ESPN that he wanted Watson’s input on the next head coach, general manager, as well as real action towards social justice initiatives. Watson and his agent David Mulugheta later spoke to McNair again over Zoom to discuss potential candidates.

In regards to the general manager job, the Texans paid search firm Korn Ferry hundreds of thousands of dollars to help in their search. They recommended Pittsburgh Steelers vice president of football and business administration Omar Khan or Monday Night Football analyst Louis Riddick — both minority candidates. Watson was strongly campaigning for Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy, one of the few black candidates, to become the next head coach. In the end, none of those recommendations were taken seriously, as the Texans went on to hire former Patriots executive Nick  Caserio. Deshaun was left very unhappy. He learned of the hire on social media like the rest of the world. 

“Watson offered input on potential general manager candidates, but the Texans neither considered nor consulted with those endorsed by their franchise quarterback,” said ESPN insider Adam Schefter. 

Watson was under the impression that his voice was going to be integral during the hiring process. Those “good faith” promises of him being involved were nothing more than just lip service it turned out, leaving him incensed. 

What It All Means: 

Let’s put thing into perspective. Watson just wrapped up his 4th year in the NFL. The former 12th overall pick from 2017 racked up 4,823 passing yards, 33 touchdowns, only 7 interceptions, and a completion percentage of 70%. Despite the personal success and numbers, his Texans team went 4-12 on the year. It was extremely disappointing to see given the commitment he gave, signing a 4-year extension worth $156 million. Both his teammates and the fan base know how valuable he is to the Houston Texans organization. Now Watson is leveraging that good faith and public capital. He wants out of Texas and is trying to force a trade.

It’s now all unraveling. When Watson found out on social media that Caserio was hired, that became the straw which broke the camel’s back. Caserio was brought in by Jack Easterby, who also spent time in New England. Watson said after the season that the organization needed “a whole culture shift.” However Easterby hiring Caserio in the same manner other Patriots alumni Bill O’Brien was hired has reportedly left Watson believing "some things never change …”.

Sources close to Deshaun stated that his anger level was "a 2. ... This time, it's a 10.” The franchise QB hasn't been returning any of Cal McNair’s phone calls as well. He’s dropping cryptic sub tweets, and there are reports that he plans on sitting out if he is not traded. Deshaun is finally believing who the Houston Texans are, and his actions prove he’s moving in HIS best interest. To see a black quarterback, in their prime, boldly stand on their convictions shows how much empowerment has shifted towards the athlete. The days of the black athlete being gaslit to just “shut-up and play” are long gone, and we’re better off for it.

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Deconstructed: A Look Into Nia Dennis’ Black Excellence Floor Routine

UCLA gymnast Nia Dennis completes her floor routine Jan. 23, 2021.

By: Baigen Seawell

We can all agree that Black Women are literally a gem to the world. 

We’ve been ruling athletics these past few weeks! From taking jobs in the MLB, NFL and more, Black Women have made a point in athletics from the higher ups. From the performance side, we are the blueprint. 

Nia Dennis, a senior sociology major and gymnast at UCLA, hails from Columbus, OH. She performed a viral floor routine on Saturday that got rave reviews from the likes of Missy Elliott, and Janet Jackson on her skillset and incorporation of legendary choreography into her routine this year. 

She did all of this while tallying up a near perfect score.

This is what #blackexcellence looks like. @DennisNia does it again! 🔥

📹 @Pac12Network pic.twitter.com/2vxgyTvUCG

— UCLA Gymnastics (@uclagymnastics) January 24, 2021

.@DennisNia I luv it 👸🏽 pic.twitter.com/X0Buu7uxcY

— Janet Jackson (@JanetJackson) January 25, 2021

I was mat talking you, while watching this @DennisNia!!!!! WOWOWOWOWOW! 🙌🏾👏🏾 https://t.co/9s1XgIfXn4

— kerry washington (@kerrywashington) January 25, 2021

This isn’t the first time she’s gone viral though. Dennis actually scored a 9.975/10 last year with a Beyoncé inspired routine and even found herself on the Ellen Show, where she and the Bruins received rave reviews for their viral performances on the floor. 

She’s no stranger to the attention. But with the state of our country, the push to appreciate Black Women and Women in Sports as a whole has hit so much harder. Hence why this routine meant so much to so many people.

The Bruins took on the Arizona State Sun Devils in this meet and it went down to the wire. While each event gathers a unique bit of attention, the floor routine is always a show stopper. In this routine, Dennis pays homage to Black Culture, Cali Culture, and everything that meshes in between. 

Before I start, here’s some quick pointers about artistic gymnastics and floor routines. Athletes are given around 90 seconds, and this is the most that a gymnast is able to show their personality. They will go through a total of 3 tumbling passes with dashes of choreography and music that synchronize with said routine.

The Deconstruction: 

1. “Humble” - Kendrick Lamar, Kneeling

Dennis starts with her hand on her heart before the guitar riff from Kendrick Lamar’s “Humble” 

She goes from the typical pose seen prior to competition, with her hand on her heart, to a kneel. This can be homage to Colin Kaepernick, and the countless athletes and student-athletes standing for something, even if it meant losing everything. 

2. “Pass the Dutch” - Missy Elliott, Stepping

Dennis proceeds with her first tumbling pass before the song transitions to an African dance beat with a nod to Bey referencing “Homecoming” before transitioning into “Pass the Dutch” by Missy Elliot. Dennis also has a quick sequence of stepping, an homage to her father, who is a member of Greek Life. 

3. “Every Time tha Beat Drop” - Monica

Nia transitions into a new song (and one of my favorite parts of the routine), being “Every Time the Beat Drop” by Monica. The song just hit the airwaves again when the song prompted a new Tiktok dance that she incorporates into her routine. She also adds in “Move like a Snake'' for a little flare before going into her middle pass.

4. “Crank Dat” - Soulja Boy

After the middle pass (and her tumbles are on beat by the way, how many people can say they can do that while tumbling?), Dennis transitions to another old school dance with “Crank Dat”, where she even gets her coach to crank with her!

5. California Homage 

Dennis closes out with the final seconds of her routine with “Boyz-N-Tha Hood” by Eazy-E and N.W.A. (While some people are saying it’s Meg’s “Girls in the Hood” due to the remaster of the song, I’m leaning towards the OG version due to the relation of the song in the routine). 

She then transitions flawlessly into “California Love” by 2Pac, where she hits a good C-Walk before closing out with a final pass and closing her routine with a flawless finish of 9.95. 

The Bruins downed the Sun Devils 196.150 to 195.950. Dennis not only tallied a near perfect score on the floor, but also got a 9.9 on the vault as well. 

While she may not be a stranger to making gymnast enthusiasts watch and listen, in this routine she definitely made the world stop. 

Carry on.

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Sensationalism Sucks: Why Kyrie Irving is a Punching Bag for Mainstream Media

Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images

By: Baigen Seawell

While one can say that some sports talk narratives are old, tired and ridiculous, it’s what gets clicks. We’ve seen it many a times in situations that just make you scratch your head. From Kaepernick to James Harden, once the most impressionable narrative hits mainstream waves, it’s hard to change it.

Kyrie Irving is, and has pretty much always been an agent of change. His most recent contribution brought to the forefront has been his buying of a home for the family of George Floyd. While this act was pretty much unheard of until Stephen Jackson brought this to the forefront, people still find reasons to hate Kyrie. 

See here with Jackie McMullan calling him “property” of his owners due to them granting him the million dollar salary he generates:

Here’s the audio of Jackie MacMullan’s story about her telling Kyrie that he’s an NBA owner’s property because they pay him millions pic.twitter.com/p1U5Euiz1n https://t.co/2JRfzrKKAy

— gifdsports (@gifdsports) January 14, 2021

Or here where he was thought to be the reason for the Celtics demise.

It’s nothing new for Kyrie to be the scapegoat of everyone’s problems when he’s on your favorite team. Since his days in Cleveland, he’s been catching flack for his contributions (or lack thereof) to his team and the teammates around him. 

“He’s not likable.”

“He’s not a team player.”

“He’s not a leader.” And those words are thought to come right out of his mouth according to some sources. 

And while this could be arguably true… is it all on Kyrie? While in Boston, he can’t be the sole reason for the team falling apart. Former Celtic, Cedric Maxwell says that Irving wasn’t the sole reason for the Celtics falling apart. “This group was the most dysfunctional team I've seen since 1983, when we had four Hall of Famers on our roster and got swept by the Milwaukee Bucks. These guys never found a way to be on the same page.” He told ESPN. 

In Cleveland, it was only inevitable that he would be traded. He called it himself. 

But this go round. Boy, oh boy. This go round has been the biggest sensationalist dumpster fire of them all. While NBA media outlets are great for pushing a narrative that will gain traction for the most minuscule things, they have just been rolling with some of the most outrageous things to hit the airwaves. 

Kyrie Irving is the most hated player in the NBA. I rest my case ... pic.twitter.com/4lkn2jevzg

— MJs GOAT (@MjsGoat) January 12, 2021

How the Dumpster Caught Fire

Sensationalism stems from the desire to gain as many clicks as possible with little to no research in the process of creating a narrative for those to follow. As the times change, more and more media outlets have gravitated to this mode of media because of the quick attention spans we have today.

Sports in particular are not interesting to everyone. The performance of an athlete after his or her game may not interest everyone. But throw something in like someone kneeling during the national anthem or losing 50 pounds in 48 hours after leaving a team they absolutely hate, and you’ve got impressions from sports fans and non sports fans of the like. 

In the midst of social injustice and one of the most polarizing moments in United States history, Irving, one of few athletes, chose to sit out for the 2020 NBA Bubble Season. His reasoning was fair, being as though the country was in ruins. Irving, who sits on the NBAPA Executive Committee as the Vice President, has more than enough jurisdiction to start this dialogue. While he was the outlier, he did receive support, but not without scrutiny. 

Sports fans would argue that once again, Kyrie is not thinking about the collective, only thinking about himself. But rather, he has shown time and time again that he is thinking about the collective. His M.O. was on the biggest picture there is while showing that athletes are indeed... more than athletes. This would not be the main mode of discussion by NBA enthusiasts and “casual fans” though, it would rather be again highlighting his selfishness. 

Fast forward a few months, we begin the abbreviated NBA 2020-21 Season. Kyrie would choose to not only sit out in the beginning, but not discuss any matters with media outlets or points of contact. He would even choose to skip out on media day for the Nets. And for what it’s worth, he had every right to do this! 

However he eventually came back and when playing against the Celtics, he was seen smudging. or burning sage during pregame warm-ups. No one cared to take five seconds to see that he has ties to the Standing Rock Sioux, they’d rather label it witchcraft instead. 

Again the masses took it and ran with it, causing an uproar of additional commentary to the Nets Guard. 

This goes on over and over like a constant cycle of commentary that seems to never end by anyone who feels compelled to pick it up. However, most people will find it easier to gravitate to the main outlets and outrageous stories because it seems more appealing to consume than say...

His contributions by paying for Lincoln University students tuition. 

Or him donating to the WNBA players who opted out for the Bubble season...

Or maybe him helping provide free meals valued at around $250,000 for New York City Residents. 

All the while he was burned at the stake for avoiding the yellow journalism and those who feed the narratives, helping them grow into the dumpster fires they are today. 

One thing about narratives in sports and sports media is that athletes are able to easily create one... about as easy as mainstream outlets can formulate their own while letting consumers catalyze it for their own corporate gains. 

Kyrie plays the game and plays it well. He creates his narrative and letting his actions speak for itself. While you can’t control the masses as to how they interpret his actions, he can control what and how he chooses to interact with it.

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MLK Day | Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Impact on the Sports World Today

By: Tialena Evans

Every year, since 1986, the 3rd Monday of January is reserved to observe and pay tribute to the legacy, that is, of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Reflection on his impact within the civil rights movement undoubtedly pulls you to acknowledge his everlasting impact that has transcended into the sports world. Now more than ever, athletes across multiple major leagues such as the NBA, NFL, MLB and others, take Dr. King's mantra and apply it towards their efforts in making their voices heard every day. 

The topic of social justice, systemic racism and just flat out basic human rights has never stopped being in the forefront of American society. The devastating case of Trayvon Martin, a 17-year-old boy who was not served justice for his wrongful death, became the reigniting flame that shed light on the corrupt social injustices African-American’s face in everyday life.

“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere”

— Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Colin Kaepernick, who is currently an NFL free agent, has also made a name for himself as a civil rights activist over the years. His activism reign began back in 2016 during a pre-season game when he chose to sit down during the playing of the “Star-Spangled Banner”. During a post game interview, Kaepernick explained his position on why he chose to sit.

“I am not going to stand up to show pride and a flag for a country that oppresses Black people and people of color. To me, this is bigger than football and it would be selfish on my part to look the other way. There are bodies in the street and people getting paid leave and getting away with murder“, Colin said referencing a series of African-American deaths caused by law-enforcement that led to the Black Lives Matter movement. 

“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in the moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”

— Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

This famous quote by Dr. King grasps the meaning of courage, bravery, and standing up to adversity even when no one else around you stands alongside you. Although Kaepernick lost his job and continues to be blackballed by the NFL, he still holds firm in his beliefs, efforts and activism to achieve social justice in a failed system from the beginning.

Fast forward to the year 2020, the most challenging year for many Americans. For African-Americans in particular, 2020 was a year of emotional restlessness. In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, civil rights movements and Black Lives Matter protests swarmed the nation in response to the deaths of Breonna Taylor and George Floyd, who both wrongfully died at the hands of law enforcement.

Throughout the entire year, athletes across the nation took a stance with Black Lives Matter by holding unprecedented game strikes, marching in the streets with civilians and sharing their own personal messages on the social issues in society.

NFL players come together to share a heartfelt message addressing social justice.  

✊🏾 pic.twitter.com/ltJwmjVVMW

— Saquon Barkley (@saquon) June 5, 2020

"Being a celebrity, being an NBA player don't exclude me from no conversation at all."

Jaylen Brown drove 15 hours from Boston to Atlanta to join the protests.

(via @FCHWPO) pic.twitter.com/eZR1fxvCdd

— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) May 31, 2020

.@MiamiHEAT forward Udonis Haslem spoke at a protest in his hometown of Miami on Sunday.

(via @WPLGLocal10) pic.twitter.com/ehxhjCSLzR

— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) May 31, 2020

I really don’t know how to put into words exactly how I feel, but one thing I know for sure is that enough is enough! It’s time for change! #GeorgeFloyd #AhmaudArbery

— Giannis Ugo Antetokounmpo (@Giannis_An34) May 31, 2020

✊🏿✊🏾✊🏽✊🏼✊🏻 pic.twitter.com/cJAjiv4B1z

— Tobias Harris (@tobias31) May 31, 2020

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A post shared by Lonzo Ball (@zo)

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that; and hate cannot drive out hate only love can do that.”

— Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Today, after an extremely tribal year, the sports world pays tribute and homage to an absolute civil rights legend. 

TNT, which is based in Atlanta, posted a video explaining the various ways the Atlanta Hawks chose to honor Dr. King.

Players, executives and designers share what the @ATLHawks MLK city edition uniforms mean to Atlanta as they honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

The Arena begins at 4pm ET on TNT. pic.twitter.com/PlPMJ15pBn

— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) January 18, 2021

Our league, the values and teachings of Martin Luther King, Jr, are inextricably linked. Today we will pay respect to the life and legacy of MLK through stories of unity, togetherness and equality. #MLKDay

— NBA (@NBA) January 18, 2021

Former and current athletes expressed their appreciation for the avenues that King opened for them.

In these times, Dr. King's words ring true as he called for us to "create a beloved community". We celebrate his legacy today, looking to make his dream a reality for both now and the future. #MLKDay pic.twitter.com/pHe1y7aQVL

— Emmitt Smith (@EmmittSmith22) January 18, 2021

NFL players around the league celebrate the life and lasting impact of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. #MLKDay pic.twitter.com/gTyaK2W9px

— NFL (@NFL) January 18, 2021

Still chasing that dream!! Thank you for paving the way. #MLKDay https://t.co/kDHjL0Ac45

— Jarred Vanderbilt (@JVando) January 18, 2021

Today is MLK Day and the anniversary of Willie O’Ree breaking the color barrier in the NHL. Both these heroes have inspired my activism and dedication to make hockey more inclusive for everyone. We all have a responsibility to make sure the things we love are accessible. pic.twitter.com/XHWgPErPLV

— JT Brown (@JTBrown23) January 18, 2021

Today we celebrate the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. #MLKDay pic.twitter.com/vQ5UT0Nqyv

— Houston Rockets (@HoustonRockets) January 18, 2021

Today, athletes make it known everyday that Dr. King‘s ingrained message and efforts towards a progressive and just society gives them the strength to continue to accomplish his dream; that one day we will be able to live in a world that is just for all no matter what you look like and where you come from.

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A Family Affair: Deion Sanders And Two Sons Begin New Chapter At Jackson State

By: Tialena Evans

Jackson State University’s football team recently gained a family trio with a familiar name. Retired NFL Hall of Famer, Deion Sanders, officially became the head coach of his two sons after his eldest, Shilo, announced his transfer from the University of South Carolina to JSU in December. Sanders’ youngest son, Shedeur, announced his commitment to the HBCU in November.

Sanders took to Instagram to express his excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to coach his two sons this upcoming spring season. 

“Lord I thank u! I couldn’t have never imagined this but you’re able to do exceedingly abundantly above all we may ask or think,” Deion wrote. “Having my sons @shilosanders & @shedeursanders on our team helping me level this playing field in pursuit of equality @gojsutigersfb is a Fathers dream. I get to develop, coach, love, motivate, challenge & watch my sons grow & go become PROFESSIONALS. WOW ! Ain’t NOBODY can tell me NOTHING that GOD CANT DO! I got father of the year locked down again now let hit my dance with a smile.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by COACH PRIME (@deionsanders)

Sanders accepted the head-coaching position in September, but due to COVID-19 concerns, JSU’s football season was moved to the Spring. They are set to kickoff their first game on February, 21.

Other than notably being a highly skilled 14-season NFL veteran, Sanders brings zero college coaching experience to Jackson State. He’s mostly dedicated his post-career days coaching at the high school level and taking part in the media industry as an analyst for NFL Network and CBS Sports. 

Although JSU’s acting president, Thomas Hudson, acknowledges the hire was partially made for media exposure, he says the attention it received exceeded even his highest expectations. “I had no idea it would be as big as it is”, he says.

It’s no secret that Sanders came to Jackson state for the reason of reviving not only the university’s football team, but HBCU football as a whole. 

“With what we’re doing in the country—social injustices, so many things about trying to reach and strive for equality—this is the best possible scenario and situation I could ever find myself in,” Sanders tells Sports Illustrated. “It’s a task to me—level the playing field.”

With this unprecedented hire in college football history, hopefully Mr. Prime Time can achieve his goals with his two boys by his side.

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Celebrating 108 Years Of Delta Sigma Theta: 5 Influential Deltas in Sports

By: Baigen Seawell

I have to be biased at least once this year.

January is known for great feats when it comes to the cultural area that is Greek Life. Five organizations alone are housed in the month of January, some of these are some of the oldest organizations in the National Pan Hellenic Council (NPHC) or “Divine Nine”.

And me being a member of D9, I know how influential we have been in sport. From A’ja Wilson (AKA) to Maritza McClendon (SGRho), to Colin Kaepernick, Bill Russell AND Wilt Chamberlain (Kappa)... Sports and Greek Life have a special relationship.

As a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta and former athlete, I gravitate greatly to those who share the same letters as my own, who also committed their time to competition at any level. 

For our Founders Day, I decided to compile a list of some of these influential members as we celebrate our 108th year of creation! 

1. Wilma Rudolph: Track and Field

Wilma Rudolph Winning One Of Her Olympic Gold Medals

The Black Gazelle, The Tornado, The Flash. Soror Rudolph ran track & field throughout the 1950s and 60s, where she would be the first to win 3 gold medals in a single Olympic Game. She became a household name because of her speed, but also the athletes she was around. Cassius Clay and Oscar Robertson made great company in the 1956 Olympic Team, and they kept in contact after the fact. Rudolph was a part of the famed Tigerbelles of Tennessee State University. While there, she was initiated through Alpha Chi Chapter.

2. Olympia Scott: Basketball

One of the most fashion savvy players of her era, I knew her for her finger waves and overall performance while at Stanford. Soror Scott was a high school All-American before going on to attend Stanford University, where she averaged 12.9 points and 6.4 rebounds. While there, she was initiated through the Omicron Chi Chapter, where Soror Candice Wiggins would attend later on. After Stanford, Scott played around the budding WNBA, where she would be the first to win two different championships with two different teams.

3. Francena McCory: Track and Field 

Back to the track, Soror McCory was influential to the modern era of track and field, running in the 2012 and 2016 Olympics, winning gold in both appearances. Instead of attending the numerous schools she was offered at the grander scale for her college career, McCory attended Hampton University. She honed in on and continued her success, breaking her own personal record with 50.49sec in the 400M dash. She’d then go on to run in the 2011 USATF Outdoor Championships, which thrusted her to the Olympic level the following year where she contributed to the 2012 and 2016 4x400M teams respectively.

4. Candice Storey Lee: Athletic Director

While we’ve seen many who have contributed to sport through the act of playing. Soror Lee was very influential at Vanderbilt where she played all four years at the university. While at Vandy, she joined the Mu Rho Chapter, before going on to receive her Master’s and Doctoral Degree. She stuck it out at Vanderbilt, serving as Deputy Athletic Director. But in 2020, she was named as Vanderbilt’s first Black Female AD at Vandy and the first Black Female AD in the SEC Conference.

5. Nia Sapp: Basketball, Sports Media

A personal favorite and an inspiration to me when it comes to sports media and analytics! Soror Sapp has served in numerous roles, but she got her start in Georgia, hailing from Arabia Mountain HS. She would go on to play for UAPB, Miami Dade and finally Alabama State University, where she was initiated through Beta Eta Chapter. Her contributions to the game have been extensive as she wears many hats, from producer to freelance work. You name it, she’s done it. 

As there are countless women serving as coaches, playing overseas, making the stories and telling them... there are many great women of Delta who contribute in their communities, line of work and otherwise.

I say all of this to say: HAPPY FOUNDERS DAY to the Devastating Divas of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated!

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Kyrie Irving Covers Tuition Costs for 9 Lincoln University Students

By: Tialena Evans

NBA stars across the board did not disappoint this holiday season when it came to paying it forward. The latest act of service comes from NBA veteran Kyrie Irving, who paid off the tuition of nine Lincoln University students. 

The Athletics Shams Charnia broke the news on Twitter Thursday (December 31). 

“Brooklyn Nets guard Kyrie Irving paid off the college tuition of nine students from an HBCU (Lincoln University) on Dec. 10 as part of his foundation's 11 days of giving in December”. Charnia tweeted.

Brooklyn Nets guard Kyrie Irving paid off the college tuition of nine students from an HBCU (Lincoln University) on Dec. 10 as part of his foundation’s 11 days of giving in December.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) December 31, 2020

"I'm walking the steps now and I want the same for others."@KyrieIrving and the KAI Family Foundation donated to HBCU student tuition relief for graduating seniors at Lincoln University 🙏 pic.twitter.com/NH6aF71FWT

— Brooklyn Nets (@BrooklynNets) January 2, 2021

In the fog of an unprecedented time and a crumbling economy, this generous contribution came in perfect time to help provide college seniors with a bit of financial relief this school year and prepare themselves for their bright futures. 

“I’m grateful for all you young leaders,” he said during a virtual call with the students. “I wouldn’t be sitting in my position and embracing who I am without knowing where I come from and people helping me along the way, so just paying it forward. I’ve committed to my service a long time ago and I’m walking the steps now and I want the same for others.”

The Brooklyn Nets guard has maintained this positive energy throughout all of 2020. Amidst the fight against racial inequality and a growing pandemic earlier in the year, Irving continuously finds ways to contribute his resources to others the best way he knows possible.

In March 2020, he announced his pledge to donate $323,000 to Feeding America, with Lineage Logistics matching up to $200,000 in donations as well. He also announced his partnership with City Harvest to donate 250,000 meals across the greater New York Area.

Kyrie Irving says on Instagram that he is partnering with Feeding America and other organizations to help families who are struggling to put meals on the table amid the COVID-19 pandemic. pic.twitter.com/VgRVBvy8kp

— Malika Andrews (@malika_andrews) March 23, 2020

The NBA star also contributed $1.5 million to assist with the salaries of WNBA players who made the tough decision to sit out of the 2020 season due to their concerns regarding the coronavirus or the heightened racial tension looming around the country.

Irving is just one of many big names who continue to do great things on and off the court. It’s a type of refreshing story that will never go out of style.

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One of the The Winningest Coaches in Football History: Eddie Robinson

By: Baigen Seawell

In 1997, Grambling State University came to an odds with their beloved coach who tallied up his second 3-8 season, and third losing season after an unparalleled journey for any Black football coach.

This coach, renowned for having one of the greatest records in BCS (now CFP) history, had been head coach for the Tigers for nearly 5 decades, and was praised by the likes of other winningest coaches such as Joe Paterno. The coach in question?

That would be the legendary Eddie Robinson. 

But legendary would be an understatement, as Robinson contributed to not only GSU, but Grambling, Louisiana as a whole. He hit the ground running, as he immediately went on to head coach for the Tigers after graduating from Leland at 22 years of age. 

After a 1-5-1 season for his debut, the then Louisiana Normal Tigers would go on to have a 9-0 season. After the close of the Second World War, and the turn of the 1960s, GSU would join the South Western Athletic Conference, or the SWAC, and this turned Grambling from a small HBCU in Louisiana into one of the most renowned powerhouses for Black football talent.

Prior to the time of Sports Information Directors and Positions Coaches, Head Coaches were known to do much more than their set duties today. For HBCU coaches in particular, the job was even more extensive. Robinson wore many hats: from Offense, to Defense, to Athletic Trainer and Sports Writer…he held his expectations high for his program, resulting in immediate success on and off of the field. 

Outside of the many hats he wore for football, Coach Robinson also taught at Grambling High School, coached girl’s basketball during World War II and directed the band…all with a budget of $46. 

And the expectations remained high in every field of human endeavor he chose to grace his presence in, due to the nature of the times that young Black children found themselves in.

Robinson held the standards of his pupils high, ensuring every parent that their son would be coached like his own. In a discussion with The Undefeated, James Harris says Coach Robinson ensured the Monroe, LA native’s mother that: “He will get a college degree. He’ll go to church on Sunday and he’ll make a difference in society.” 

Harris went on to be the first starting Black QB for the Buffalo Bills in 1969.

Robinson’s track record for successful athletes was more like a laundry list for GSU Football alumni. He had the pleasure of catapulting over 200 young men to fulfill their dreams of going professional, and harnessing success well after retirement from the game. For Robinson himself, he simply wanted to show that the American Dream is attainable regardless of who sought out to obtain it. 

By the 70s and 80s, Robinson and the Tigers were gaining steam, and this would arguably be some of his best seasons of his career. He would go on to win 4 Bowl games and surpass Paul “Bear” Bryant for 324 wins with their win over Prairie View A&M. 

10 Years Later, he became the first coach to reach 400 wins with a 42-6 win over Mississippi Valley State. This garnered congratulations from President Bill Clinton.

But this same season, Coach Robinson was 78 years of age and thought to be on the decline after tallying a 5-6 season, followed by consecutive 3-8 seasons from 1995 to 1997. Talks were brewing that GSU Athletics would relieve Robinson of his duties midseason. But this became such a public outcry that Louisiana Governor, Mike Foster, condemned the act. 

Coach Robinson held his title of Head Coach until the end of 1997. His three losing seasons were overshadowed with the extensive legacy he left with the Tigers for nearly five decades finishing with a record of 408-165-15, winning five Black College National Championships and 17 SWAC Championships. 

And what did coach Paterno, another one of the winningest coaches, have to say about the success that Eddie Robinson left on the game of College football? 

“Nobody has ever done or ever will do what Eddie Robinson has done for the game... Our profession will never, ever be able to repay Eddie Robinson for what he has done for the country and the profession of football.”

— Joe Paterno

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New York Jets Fumble The No. 1 Draft Pick

By: Tialena Evans

It’s been a rough year for the 2-13 New York Jets, and unfortunately for them 2021 isn’t looking any brighter. The Jets officially lose out of the no. 1 pick with back-to-back wins late in the season against the Los Angeles Rams and Cleveland Browns. 

Since snapping their 13-game losing streak, the longest in franchise history, the Jets undoubtedly extend their decades-long search for a franchise quarterback. Any chance they had at snagging Clemson star Trevor Lawrence, the presumptive no.1 overall pick in next year's draft, has been seemingly passed to the Jacksonville Jaguars.

“Hey, our job is to try to go out and win every week,” says coach Adam Gase. “ It’s been too long for us to even remember what a win feels like almost.”

Sure, a win is nice. I mean that’s what you’re playing for after all. Was it the right move in this instance however? Most will say no, including myself. 

Adam Gase truly took everything from the New York Jets.

— Trevor Sikkema (@TampaBayTre) December 21, 2020

The New York Jets should be destroyed.

Every last stitch of uniform, logo, equipment, office supplies, the practice facility, every last molecule of the team. Vaporized. We have to start again.

— Sean Fennessey (@SeanFennessey) December 20, 2020

Let’s be real here, This New York franchise can’t seem to get up and running as they haven’t made the playoffs in a whole decade. It’s not like they even had a chance to make the playoffs this year either, so why not cut your losses and accept the “Browns special” (0-16 record) in exchange for some future talent? 

I guess footballs aren’t the only thing this team’s fumbled this year.

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Michael B. Jordan Partners with Non-Profit to Start Up HBCU Tournament in Hometown

COURTESY OF COACH

By: Baigen Seawell

Actor and philanthropist Michael B. Jordan has partnered up with Hoop Dreams to organize an HBCU basketball tournament in December of 2021.

The Newark, New Jersey native chose to launch the event after the turbulent year that has just recently passed. With the growing desire for young prospects to go back to their roots by attending and participating in programs fostered to build up Black athletes, the desire to appreciate the culture and vitality that exists at these programs has become more prevalent. 

Examples of the HBCU Exodus include Deion Sanders making his move to Jackson State University as the head coach; followed by his son Shilo, who is the highest recruit to sign to the Tigers in school history. Makur Maker also decided to take his talents to Howard University, and a slew of other athletes have transferred into these historically rich programs.

These examples partnered with the now present appreciation for HBCUs pushed to build a partnership between the Black Panther actor and CEO of Hoop Dreams, Jessica Estrada. 

The Hoop Dreams Classic will showcase men’s basketball for the first year, but will look to expand to women’s in the coming launches. The tournament will also host bands and other external events to keep fans entertained. 

Jordan told HBCU Sports in a report that “As a Newark native, I am committed to bringing change to the community and am honored to be able to present The Hoop Dreams Classic as a way to celebrate the value of community, education, and Black college experiences. Through our shared love of basketball, I look forward to bringing the communal spirit of HBCUs to the city that helped shape me into the man I am today.”

But where can this go, and how can this assist Black communities? In numerous ways.

How this Helps Prospects and Communities

With the growing interest in attending HBCUs, young students in Newark and surrounding areas will gain early exposure to the culture and experience gained at HBCUs. This, partnered with the showcase of athletic talent, will build interest for the incoming generations, which in turn keeps a level playing field and opens the pool of decisions for young prospects. 

In the long run, these prospects will be able to choose a school that can not only help build their athletic careers, but their academic careers as well. With the financial support secured from a big celebrity and native of the city, Michael B. Jordan will be able to bring more eyes and dollars to the city of Newark, youth facilities and schools that house this talent. 

Estrada mentioned in a press release that “After seeing firsthand the lack of resources and information available to basketball players, I was determined to make Hoop Dreams the vehicle that could provide the tools these kids need to be successful in life beyond the game.” Estrada added that the vision for the communities are matched and would create a large impact.

The pipeline that streams from an event with the accessibility of Hoop Dreams, partnering up with the household name of a superstar like Michael B. Jordan will directly impact the exposure and appreciation given to HBCUs on the recruiting scale. This, along with the long term positives for prospects such as financial support, broadening options to build academic success and career development create what HBCUs are known and given praise for. 

While the first Hoop Dreams Classic is a year out, the excitement to bring an event of this scale to the Brick City already has New Jerseyans eager for what it will do for their city.

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Jrue Holiday Donates Remainder of 2020 NBA Salary to Small Black Businesses & Nonprofits

Jrue Holiday During Gametime With the Pelicans - Rocky Widner/ NBAE via Getty Images

By: Tialena Evans

Milwaukee Bucks guard Jrue Holiday and his wife Lauren shared inspiring news Saturday on their efforts in assisting those struggling with the resurging COVID-19 pandemic across the nation. 

The Holidays announced on Instagram their pledge to donate the remainder of their 2020 NBA salary to help small black-owned businesses, nonprofits and initiatives. Jrue shares their decision to focus on the needs of the African-American community and how they feel they can make a lasting impact at a time they need it most.

“With the COVID-19 pandemic and heightened racial injustice is in 2020, many of us have been looking for answers. Lauren and I found ourselves searching for ways to help our community at a time when they need it most,” he wrote. “Pledging the remainder of our 2020 NBA salary to small black owned businesses, nonprofits and initiatives is how we felt we could make a lasting impact.”

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A post shared by Jrue Holiday (@jrue_holiday11)

“It’s encouraging to know that in a time when we could all use a helping hand, we are still searching for ways to help one another. Know that you are not alone in your search for answers,” Jrue continued. 

This generous contribution isn’t the first time Jrue has been spotted paying it forward. The NBA veteran made the tough decision back in July to depart from his pregnant wife to play in the NBA bubble. This decision allowed him to be able to donate the remainder of his salary for the season, about $5 million, to businesses, nonprofits and higher learning institutions that serve the Black community.

“There needed to be a reason why I felt it was worth leaving my family and my pregnant wife to go into the bubble,” Jrue said. “I think they gave me a great reason to go back and play, to feel like I’m doing something for my people in this culture. Donating the rest of my contract was kind of the ultimate decision for a while I was going.”

The 11th year guard is on a five-year, $131.8 million contract, which he’s already earned a little over $26 million for the 2019-20 season. While in Milwaukee, he’s set to make another 25.3 million this year.

As of now, it has not been announced how much money the Holiday’s will be donating this time around  or where donations will be distributed to. 

Hopefully Jrue and his wife Lauren's efforts to help their communities can be a blueprint and a call to action for others who have the means.

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HBCUs Could Benefit From New Discrimination Lawsuit Against the NCAA

By: Baigen Seawell

For years, the NCAA has been the center of attention when it comes to the practices (or lack thereof) that greatly affect athletic programs as it relates to “the Little Guys,” or the small institutions that don’t generate ridiculously large revenues. In particular, HBCUs have fallen in the category of the Little Guys.

In 2015, UGA operated under a budget that allotted $6.4 million for a coaching staff of 10 people. Meanwhile Savannah State University Operated under a $4.5 million total athletics budget. These budgets do not allow wiggle room for institutions to spend on extensive tutoring catered just for athletic programs or facilities to “blossom” their academic progress through their seasons. Where budgets don’t fill in the gaps for student-athletes, they make up for it in the academic relationships that HBCUs provide to their students. 

NPR reports that attorney, Beth Fegan, believes that HBCUs are being held to an irrational standard.

“And so HBCUs are already starting at lower graduation success rates, lower academic progress rates,” Fegan said, “and yet they’re being held to the same benchmarks as predominantly white institutions who don’t have the mission [HBCUs do]. The NCAA should be supporting the mission of HBCUs, not penalizing them for it.”

— Beth Fegan

The mission of HBCUs serves students that fall under first-generation, low income status and the rationale behind the suit is that the NCAA is forcing these institutions to adhere to rules that are not applicable to them.

Standards such as the Academic Progress Rate (APR), which has been debunked due to inflated rates reported at institutions (HBCU or Non-HBCU) are the expectation to follow. The Graduation Success Rate (GSR), is also an NCAA created model to track graduation rates of student-athletes, even though many of them who go pro or drop out are counted in this equation to inflate the numbers. 

HBCUs don’t meet these standards for numerous reasons, reasons that can be found at PWIs if you look hard enough (they just do a good job at hiding it, see the UNC Scandal). But these penalties and standards don’t change the rate of graduation for either party… 

However only one side receives drastic effects to its programs due to the class system that exists in the world of collegiate athletics. 

Solutions that can dismantle this system are abolishing the GSR and APR, and following the Federal Graduation Rate (FGR), which is the Department of Education’s Standard for all institutions to follow. If this happens, the Dept. of Ed can better assist and possibly fund programs to make sure this doesn’t fall to the wayside for student-athletes and students alike. 

This proposal was provided by the Drake Group, an organization dedicated to reforming college sport. While they don’t explicitly state HBCUs, these types of solutions are calling to the exact schools that need them most.

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7 High School Basketball Recruits To Look Out For In The Class Of 2021

By: Baigen Seawell

Who to Watch For: High School Basketball’s Class of 2021 (Boy’s and Girl’s)

In a time where sports have been greatly affected by the COVID-19 Pandemic, it has no sights of slowing down any time soon. In the realm of recruitment in the high school basketball realm, we’ve have seen adjustments, but the over all desire to see future talent has not slowed up yet. 

As National Signing Day quickly approaches in February, Class of 2021 is becoming the biggest talk for Programs like Louisville, Duke, UConn, South Carolina and more. Here are the Top Players to Watch for (Boy’s and Girl’s).

1. Paolo Banchero (O’Shea High School, Seattle WA)

• Banchero is a 6’9” Power Forward out of O’Shea High School in Seattle. A 5-Star recruit, with offers from Gonzaga, University of Kentucky, North Carolina and Tennessee, Banchero decided to sign with Duke in November. 

• The Italian player is ranked No. 2 in the nation (ESPN) and averaged 22.6 points and 11 rebounds a game his junior year. It was thought that he was unlikely to choose Duke, but it looks as though his size and awareness of the court will be a valuable asset to the Blue Devils. 

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2. Azzi Fudd (St. Johns College HS, Washington DC)

• The No. 1 Girl’s Player in the country, Fudd is a 5’11” combo guard from St. Johns College High School in the Nation’s Capital. For many, it wouldn’t be a surprise that Fudd would choose the Dynastic University of Connecticut for her future endeavors, where she’ll be able to emphasize her skills even more. 

• Throughout her high school career, Fudd has been compared to UConn alumna, Maya Moore with her style of play and unselfish ball-handling. After an injury in 2019, she’s looking to redeem herself with Coach Auriemma and potentially reshape the game of women’s basketball while doing it. 

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3. Kennedy Chandler (Sunrise Christian Academy, Memphis TN)

• Chandler is a 6’1” Point Guard out of Memphis, TN. He would sign to the University of Tennessee in November. Another No. 2 ranked (247 Sports) player, Chandler is said to be a quick-paced guard with a high basketball IQ. 

• With offers from Duke, Arizona, and home team Memphis, Chandler chose the Volunteers, which was a good look from coach Rick Barnes who was rallying to land the point guard for a while. Chandler adds his expertise and speed to the Vols, while they’ll compliment him with size in the post. 

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4. Raven Johnson (Westlake, Atlanta GA)

• Johnson is the No. 2 ranked Girl’s player in the country, where she commands overall court awareness and mid-range expertise. Johnson, who is currently playing for the Lions in Atlanta, had offers from Auburn, UCLA, UGA and Georgia Tech. But it would be fitting for the best point guard in the country to sign with one of the best, being University of South Carolina.

• A leader on the court, Johnson will compliment with the Gamecocks and Coach Staley’s dynamic leadership that she’s established over the past few years. With Tyasha Harris moving on to the WNBA, Johnson will be able to fall in line with Zia Cooke and Destanni Henderson in the guard position. 

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5. Caleb Houstan (Monteverde Academy, Monteverde FL)

• Another Florida made athlete, Caleb Houstan is a 5-star recruit from Monteverde Academy, where the likes of Ben Simmons, D’Angelo Russel and more have found success from this program. Houstan is a 6’8” Power Forward, who recently committed to Michigan. 

• The Mississauga native is not the first to be recruited by the wolverines, as they’ve landed Nik Stauskas eight years earlier. His size along with his expertise in the post will become a valuable asset to Michigan in the coming season. 

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6. Aubryanna Hall (Wayne, Dayton OH)

• Another combo guard and South Carolina commit makes the list with Aubryanna Hall. The 5’11” guard is ranked 14th in the nation, but is in good company as the top 5 in her position with Azzi Fudd. Her mid-range skill and opportunistic attitude to take the shot compliments her future teammate, Raven Johnson. 

• Hall had offers from Kentucky, Ohio State, Texas and Tennessee. Her decision to join Coach Staley will be a valuable asset in the longevity of quality point guards in her program. The versatility between her and Johnson will make for terrible two’s in the near future. 

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7. Patrick Baldwin Jr. (Hamilton, Sussex WI) 

• Another Power Forward, Baldwin Jr. is an undecided prospect as of December. But, he’s made headlines with his skill and ability with his size, landing offers from Duke, Georgetown, Kentucky and Michigan. Unfortunately, he suffered a major ankle injury on December 4 against Menomonee Falls. 

• While it is unsure when he will return, his impact has already been made as a player. Last season, he was named the Wisconsin Gatorade Player of the Year with an average of 24 pints and nearly 11 rebounds a game. Duke is a high likelihood for Baldwin Jr., but we’ll have to keep an eye out to see if this stays the case for him

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Black Twitter Erupts After Nate Robinson's Knockout Loss To Jake Paul

By: Omar Cook

In what was just supposed to be the undercard of the heavily anticipated fight between legends Mike Tyson and Roy Jones Jr., turned put to be one of the most talked about sporting moments of 2020. Former NBA star Nate Robinson faced off against youtube star Jake Paul in what was his professional boxing debut. It was very clear from the jump that Nate Robinson did not belong in the boxing ring.

Jake Paul dominated the entire match knocking down Nate Robinson multiple times and eventually knocking him out in the second round! "You don't play boxing," boxing legend Sugar Ray Leonard said. This was an embarrassing display to say the least and it showed just how difficult it is to be dominant in multiple sports.

With all of the racial tension that has been building this year, Black twitter was definitely pulling for Nate Robinson as this would have been a major victory for the culture! After Deontay Wilder took an L to Tyson Fury in the heavyweight title match back in February, we’ve been waiting for something to brag about, but this was a letdown to say the least. And of course, Black twitter would not let this moment die down without getting their jokes off first!

I’m pretty sure that what Jake Paul did to Nate last night was racism.

— Karlous (@KarlousM) November 29, 2020

Nobody:

Nate Robinson this morning at breakfast: pic.twitter.com/yAEK3Lf2ww

— Quavo Met Travis Scott At My House (@TeamTeddyRay) November 29, 2020

Nate Robinson In The Middle Of Round 2 pic.twitter.com/g5djbOeHTK

— DJ First Class™ 🏁 (@1DJFirstClass) November 29, 2020

Yes, it’s been rough for our guy Nate Robinson but there are people out there who have some compassion. Interesting enough, boxing legend Floyd Mayweather chimed in and came to his defense!

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A post shared by Floyd Mayweather (@floydmayweather)

Again, this was just the WARM UP to the main fight. Mike Tyson and Roy Jones Jr. squared off for a battle of the ages, literally, as both boxers stepped into the ring surpassing 50 years old! This was amazing to see as they went head to toe for the entire 8 rounds with no knockdowns and the fight ended in a draw, despite Tyson clearly dominating the match but Tyson was still happy with the results. "This is bigger than fighting and winning the championship," Tyson said after the fight. "We're humanitarians and we're helping people." Roy Jones seemed to be gassed during the match but held his own and Tyson still looked extremely powerful with his punches! Salute to the legends for putting on a show!

Hopefully Nate Robinson can bounce back and redeem himself because social media is a wild place and these memes show no mercy to anyone! As for the Black twitter community, we will just have to wait once again to get some redemption!

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NBA Finals: LeBron’s Legacy Won’t Be Done Justice this Season, Here’s Why!

By: Baigen Seawell

In March, everyone was excited to see what was planned for LeBron James and the Lakers with the growing success the team saw as they inched closer and closer to the playoffs. But it was hastily halted, meaning we won’t be able to honor his legacy in the way we should be able to. 

With the NBA, MLB, and NHL all being halted in March due to the COVID-19 Outbreak, many of the things we usually have been looking forward to have been tweaked. Our sports circadian rhythm has been put out of wack, and we’re trying to get it back. 

Once we got our “new normal,” the talks began to start back up again. But for the NBA, there’s been the talk of one of the best to ever do it, and the legacy that he’s inching closer and closer towards.

But let’s be honest, this season is not the most idealistic way to honor the King’s legacy.

LeBron has entered his 17th season this year, and has not looked back. Over his career, he’s evolved the game, helping foster new stat lines and player performance ratings to follow in the league, along with a growth and popularity in the point-forward position. 

There’s no doubt that he and his teammates are destined for a championship ring after the trials and tribulations the Lakers franchise faced. If they win, this will result in a 17th ring, more importantly, an honor to the late Kobe Bryant, who was LeBron’s closest friend and greatest rival. 

The Miami Heat, who represent the Eastern Conference, stars one of the youngest players to ever compete in the Finals. At 20 years and 256 days old, Tyler Herro is a household name in his own right, taking on a veteran leading his team to victory. This should be the talk of the town, everyone should be tuned in.

But they aren’t. At least according to the numbers. 

But from the media side, no one is watching this unfold in real time. Game 1 of the Finals was thought to be the lowest viewership in league history with 7.4 Million. Then Game 2, the numbers dipped to 6.1 Million. Finally in Game 3, the NBA Finals had an all-time low of 5.9 Million viewers. 

This sucks. But it’s not a political agenda or whatever people will throw out there… 

Like many other leagues, they’re all fighting for a spot on the television. The second game fell on a Friday, which usually doesn’t get too many views according to Sports Illustrated. Game 3 fell on the same day as the America’s Game: Football (I can’t even say I was tuned in that game).

While unfortunate, we are in a paradox where we are experiencing all sports at once, making it nearly impossible for most of us common folk to watch several games at once. I’m sure the average family doesn’t have a 10 TV set up just for the sake of watching every game possible. People also find themselves streaming more than watching live cable TV, especially in the wake of the pandemic.

The argument can be made that “the NBA has been down in viewership for years!”

But… so has everyone else. Sports viewership is not what it used to be. 

So what does this mean for LeBron? Does this mean he plays for more seasons so his presence is felt the way that it should have been this season? Maybe. Maybe not. But the magnitude and celebration that should be given for his contributions to the league may be put on hold because, unfortunately, not enough people are tuned in this season, and that’s no one’s fault but the damned TV Guide.

On the flip side, he’s still one of the greatest, he’ll still be acknowledged, along with Caruso, Davis and the rest of the Lakers. If they win the Finals, they’ll still get the attention from every news source, especially Skip Bayless’. Kobe’s Legacy will be resurfaced and the significance of the Laker Dynasty will be rightfully so placed in the forefront, as they’ll be tied with Boston for the most championships.

Viewership wise, the King may not get the amount of eyes on him as he should. The legacy will be much sweeter when reminiscing on the whirlwind that was the 2020 NBA Season.

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We Don’t Need Sports, We Need Action

By: Baigen Seawell

After three months, George Floyd’s legacy still rings, Breonna Taylor’s Killers (Johnathan Mattingly, Brett Hankinson, and Myles Cosgrove) are still not indicted, and now the shooting of Jacob Blake has forced people to take the blinders off. 

Sports is and always has been an avenue to invoke pride and change to matters at hand. It’s brought us together when Katrina ripped through New Orleans, or when we had to recover from the September 11th Attacks.

But on the flip side, for many years, sports and athletes alike have been forced to keep quiet on intersections that affect them personally, race and gender being the top two. As a people, the narrative is that because we had Jackie Robinsons and Michael Jordans and Florence Griffith-Joyners, there is no racism or sexism to deal with, especially not in sport. 

Athletes such as Muhammad Ali, Colin Kaepernick, and Serena Williams show time and time again that there are things that need to be dealt with, and they have dealt with them with poise and restraint. But after the constant turmoil and tensions boiling over the symbolic pot holding in all of the extended experiences that Black athletes face before, during and after their participation...there is little restraint in this matter.  

Over the past 72 hours, athletes throughout the NBA have boycotted playing in playoff appearances. This is different from mentioning names in press conferences and post game interviews, or wearing HBCU apparel to raise awareness. Sports are going to grind to a halt, whether people accept it or not. 

Former NBA legends Kareem Abdul Jabar and Bill Russell went on strike during their time, and as the boycott ensues, this will be the first true strike collectively, excluding the four prior NBA lockouts throughout the league’s history. 

This is a major and pivotal moment in athlete activism because acknowledging intersections in athletes has been frowned upon in professional and amateur athletes. Athletes should “just play...” but in a world of social distancing, civil unrest and rising tensions, how can one focus on just playing when you are isolated in thought, in presence (in your respected bubble, or wubble) and in spirit? When the jersey comes off, reality sets in. 

Athletes of Color, specifically Black athletes are subject to stacking, targeting, and are faced with sociological backlash regularly. Be it Black athletes being acknowledged for their physical nature instead of intellect, like their white counterparts, or being prevented equal pay and opportunities due to the gender gap… or finally, witnessing violence against our fellow Black people. Things have been sliding for entirely too long over these three months, and it’s time to bring things to a screeching halt.

Policy changes have been delayed for the sake of bringing things back to “normal,” however, things cannot and will not be returning to normal. 

Sports can no longer be used to assuage the mind state of those who use it as a tool to keep citizens pacified, as it did for centuries in numerous cultures. We cannot use the dramatic spectacle to pretend that this is normal, because none of this is normal. Sports should not have come back, nor should they have been considered to resume. 

As players continue to boycott, tensions keep rising, and the ball is now in the court of policy makers, general managers and league commissioners everywhere to make the decision of how to invoke action and facilitate change...without using sport as a scapegoat.

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NBA Players Take Monumental Stance For Social Justice Reform By Boycotting Playoffs

By: Omar Cook

NBA players took a historic stance for social justice reform as they collectively boycotted tonights slate of games which would have been game 5 for the Bucks, Magic, Thunder, Rockets, Trail Blazers, and the Lakers. It started when the Milwaukee Bucks refused to take the floor before their matchup with the Orlando Magic in response to the shooting of Jacob Blake by Wisconsin police that left him paralyzed.

Another cop related shooting incident of an unarmed Black man is what’s sparking the collective outrage around the league and the nation. NBA players took to twitter to voice their frustrations on current racial issues.

“We Keep Loving This Country. And This Country Doesn’t Love Us Back”

— DWade (@DwyaneWade) August 26, 2020

WE DEMAND CHANGE! SALUTE @Bucks ✊🏾🙏🏾🗣

— Donovan Mitchell (@spidadmitchell) August 26, 2020

FUCK THIS MAN!!!! WE DEMAND CHANGE. SICK OF IT

— LeBron James (@KingJames) August 26, 2020

Many argued that the season should have never started back up in the first place arguing that it would be a distraction to bigger issues at hand such as systematic racism. One of those people was All Star guard Kyrie Irving, who was catching major slack for not agreeing that basketball should be played right now.

I’ll never ever ever forget the way Kyrie was demonized for saying the things everybody is saying now.

— Boogie Bousins (@bansky) August 26, 2020

They were on Kyrie’s head when he said NBA shouldn’t play. Doesn’t matter how many games are played as a distraction, Black men are still being targeted #justiceforjacoblake pic.twitter.com/GvRGnYxU4D

— Omar Cook (@OmarCook_) August 26, 2020

At this point, it’s bigger than just giving Kyrie the apology he deserves for speaking the truth, it’s about actually making real changes. Sure we all loved seeing players back on the court, competing inside the bubble, but it is racism, is still the major elephant in the room. The NBA boycott set off a ripple effect as MLB and WNBA games were also postponed. TNT anchor Kenny “The Jet” Smith walked off the set of Inside The NBA in support of the NBA players boycott.

Kenny Smith walks off set of “Inside the NBA” joining in protest with players

“I think it’s best for me, to support the players, and just not be here tonight.” pic.twitter.com/gbXLqhKZlr

— 247 Live Culture (@247LC) August 27, 2020

What will be interesting to see is how players in the NFL will come together with the season scheduled to start right around the corner. Athletes have used their platforms in an outspoken way throughout the pandemic and are realizing the power they have as players. How long the boycott lasts, who knows! But this is the perfect time for our country to focus on mending deep historical wounds and coming together to bring radical changes to our society. Salute to the NBA players who took a stand.

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5 Star Prospect Makur Maker Commits To Howard Paving The Way For Other Top Prospects

By: Omar Cook

5 Star basketball Prospect Makur Maker made a monumental move by committing to Howard University over UCLA, Kentucky, and Memphis. Maker becomes the highest ranked prospect to commit to an HBCU since the start of the ESPN recruiting database in 2007.

Committed Howard U. Let's get it!! ❤️💙

Maker is 6’11 with a versatile skill set and is ranked No. 16 in the ESPN 100 for the class of 2020. He is also the cousin of Detroit Pistons forward Thon Maker! Maker is also expected to submit his name for the NBA draft but will withdraw if he is unexpected to go in the 1st round.

"I was the 1st to announce my visit to Howard & other started to dream 'what if,'" Maker wrote on Twitter. "I need to make the HBCU movement real so that others will follow. I hope I inspire guys like Mikey Williams to join me on this journey. I am committing to Howard U & coach Kenny Blakeney."

This move is major as it paves the way for other top rated recruits to make commitments to HBCUs. Highly touted basketball recruit Mikey Williams has made it known that he is seriously considering going the HBCU route as well. Wake Forest forward, Sharone Wright Jr announced that he would be transferring to Morgan State joining a host of other highly rated recruits at MSU.

Big day for #HBCU programs. 6'5 Sharone Wright Jr (@S_Wri2) transferred from Wake Forest to #MorganState. Started 21 games as frosh in #ACC. Joins ex UNLV F Troy Baxter, ex Cincy G Trevor Moore, ex St. Joe's G Troy Holston,former FSU commit&top-50 PG Nassem Khalid.Not bad class. pic.twitter.com/etlkDJLkuI

— Rodger Bohn (@rodgerbohn) July 3, 2020

HBCU recruiting often struggles compared to major D1 programs but with the help of recruits deciding to commit, this could change the landscape of recruiting and bring in more revenue to HBCU athletics. At the end of the day, it’s the athletes who bring the school wins and attention. Expect to see more top rated recruits going the Black College route in all sports.

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Chauncey Gardner-Johnson Receives Backlash on Commentary of Black Athletes’ Interest In HBCUs

By: Baigen Seawell

It’s been one month since George Floyd’s passing. We’ve seen progressive work done in many avenues, especially in the realm of Higher Ed, to emphasize and empathize with Black students, and student-athletes. 

Black athletes who once attended PWI’s, those who have committed to them, and had interest have shifted their views on the institutions. The SEC and Conference USA has threatened to halt their Championships until the Confederate Flag is banned in the states which it’s still used. We’ve also seen an uptick in interests from black athletes to attend HBCU’s instead of PWI’s.

For some, this is great news. But for others, it’s all performative. 

Saints Safety, Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, stated that the prospects are “Just talking they not trying to settle regardless of what’s going on […] they only saying that for clout.”

I respect and love every part of HBCU’s but ima going to be real , these kids not going to settle! They want to win and be seen 🤷🏾‍♂️ they like attention that’s why that said that

— C.J. (@CGJXXIII) June 25, 2020

These kids just talking they not trying to settle regardless of what’s going on let’s be real they only saying that for clout 🤷🏾‍♂️ #spotoutBS https://t.co/LslMhrEPqR

— C.J. (@CGJXXIII) June 25, 2020

This commentary brought a storm of backlash from HBCU Alumni and Advocates. It questions the rhetoric of HBCU Athletes who had the opportunity to go pro, despite them going a different route than other athletes. 

The problem is that you think HBCUs are settling. Talent is talent. Whether on Broadway or in a Subway...Talent will always be found. https://t.co/XAM2cj8TUU

— Was that a nerve??⚜⚜ (@SaintsSoulja) June 25, 2020

The Fact of the Matter 

The problem with the comments made from Gardner-Johnson is that although HBCU Athletes are present in the NFL, NBA, and many other professional leagues, HBCU’s were and are where many pro-athletes found their beginnings. Shannon Sharpe (Savannah State), Buck Buchanan (Grambling), and a countless list of others found their claim to fame at HBCU’s throughout the 20th century. 

In the modern era, though ten percent of all NFL players are HBCU made, it would be a travesty to say that any of these athletes settled for where they are today. One can’t question the institution the athlete attends and question the operations of the employer they are seeking interest in. 

In an article written by The Undefeated, Redskins senior personnel executive and Grambling State Alum, Doug Williams discussed the administrative procedures in recruiting collegiate prospects. 

“I know, since I’ve been in the administration part of it, that some of these scouts are inclined to give a guy at an FBS school who has not played at all more of an opportunity than a guy who’s played four years at a historically black college […] I think what we have to do is don’t judge the school. We’ve got to start judging the player. It’s all about opportunity.”

It goes to say that “settling” is not what these athletes are doing in the slightest. The spotlight seems to flood FBS and FCS institutions during draft season. This leaves little room for HBCU’s to display their talents for the next level to see. What would have been the first HBCU Combine hosted by the league would be cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, closing the door of opportunity to tap into 51 players' talents at these institutions. 

Though Gardner-Johnson argues that we should monitor and hold accountable college prospects who are interested, HBCU athletes are not settling for an opportunity. It would be a disservice to say this, being that his teammate,Terron Armstead is a product of University of Arkansas, Pine Bluff.

To say that one is settling when choosing an HBCU, goes against the walking testaments that defy this argument in his own locker room.

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NBA Stars Express Concerns Over Finishing The Season In The Midst Of Racial Tensions

By: Omar Cook

The NBA season is set to resume on July 30 in Orlando featuring an 8 game schedule and 22 teams, but players are concerned over wether or not this is the right time to play. In the midst of major racial tensions in our country and unified efforts to address police brutality, bringing sports into the mix seems to be a distraction from what’s truly important. With covid-19 shutting down all sports and quarantining most of the country for the past couple months, this is really the first time that racial issues have held the main stage.

Nets guard and vice president of the NBPA Kyrie Irving led a conference call featuring 80 plus players from around the league where players were able to voice their opinions about how they felt.

“I don’t support going into Orlando — I’m not with the systematic racism and the bullshit. Something smells a little fishy.”

— Kyrie Irving

Kyrie reportedly said he is “willing to give up everything” for social reform. His comments came as a surprise to many fans but we have seen athletes take a stand and give up their careers for social justice just as former WNBA star Maya Moore did when she decided to devote her time fully to social activism.

Kyrie was met with mixed reviews with some fans showing support and understanding where he was coming from while others were upset at him speaking against the NBA. I can understand both view points, about why continuing the season could be beneficial but also how it can be a distraction. Everyday we turn the news on, it is draining to see negative portrayals of Black men and to force athletes who may not be in the right mental state at this time to compete, could definitely be a lot to ask for.

Austin Rivers shared a difference of opinion, stating that “with this money you could help out even more people and continue to give more importantly your time and energy towards the BLM movement.”

Austin Rivers on the Kyrie/NBA situation pic.twitter.com/L0dwoD7c6h

— NBA Retweet (@RTNBA) June 13, 2020

Clippers guard Lou Williams also shared his thoughts, saying a return to the NBA would be a a distraction.

View this post on Instagram

Lou Will says basketball is a distraction in this climate

A post shared by Colin Witte - Charlie Stafford (@cityofsteelsports) on Jun 13, 2020 at 4:52pm PDT

I think we all would love to see sports come back and enjoy games, but it is also a pivotal time in history when the world is in full focus on racial issues. Stephen Jackson posted a video to say “now ain’t the time to be playing basketball.”

Stephen Jackson speaks on the return of the NBA. 👀

“Playing basketball’s going to do one thing. Take all the attention off the task at hand.” pic.twitter.com/JEG5C68a7Q

— Da Kid Gowie (@DaKidGowie) June 13, 2020

There are immediate changes that need to made to our society and while we all love sports, they can definitely take a backseat at the moment

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