With becoming the highest paid player in the NBA — comes a ton of off the court scrutinity and responsibility — whether you asked for it or not.
The Grizzlies 153 million maximum-salaried man talked not only about handling business on the court — but about leading a different charge. In light of frustration and unrest following the cops killing of Alton Sterling in Baton Rouge, La.,Philando Castile in Minn., and the killing of five police officers in Dallas — Conley’s prepared to fight for Memphis and social issues across the country.
It’s obviously a sensitive topic, I know, for a lot of people, especially for myself. You know, this last few weeks … This is supposed to be the most exciting time for me. You know, getting a new contract, getting to come back home to Memphis. But I haven’t celebrated. I haven’t celebrated, not one day, in light of all the events that are going on in this world and in America.
I mean, for me, it’s hard to wake up knowing that this injustice is still going on. The violence against police officers and the violence against innocent citizens has to stop. We have to make a change. However hard that is, however uncomfortable it is.
And it’s not comfortable for me to sit up here and talk to you about it, to be honest. I’m a quiet guy. You all know that. I’m very reserved. But at the same time, as much as I want to lead by example, I know when it’s time to speak up, and right now is that time.
Conley’s comments show growth and follow NBA, WNBA and athletes across the country speaking about social injustices.
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