Sports celebs cheer Beto O’Rourke’s dialogue on NFL kneeling controversy

The Texas Senate candidate's speech has had an impact on others around the sports world apparently

Aug 24, 2018

LeBron James is not the only high-profile celeb who has publicly praised Democratic Texas Senate candidate Beto O’Rourke for his commentary about the NFL protests and the inequality African Americans deal with on a daily basis, CNN reports.

The senate candidate’s commentary at a town hall meeting went viral after his passionate video circulated widely. O’Rourke spoke out in support of NFL players like Colin Kaepernick who kneeled in protest during the national anthem. He also drove home points about the present challenges Black people still face in America – especially the rising police shootings against unarmed black men.

James, who was traded to the LA Lakers from Cleveland earlier this summer, tweeted to his 41 million followers:

A Must Watch!!! ?????‼️ Salute @BetoORourke for the candid thoughtful words! https://t.co/E1YrbqGciZ

— LeBron James (@KingJames) August 23, 2018

NFL Hall of Fame Quarterback Kurt Warner took notice of the four-minute video and tweeted, “Every past & present fan of NFL – please listen – I believe he hit the nail on the head & he did so not by dividing the 2 sides but by joining them together in realizing the freedoms of our country have been forged by soldiers but also by many others who have fought in diff ways!”

Also, NFL Hall of Fame head coach Tony Dungy added his thoughts to the viral conversation:

“If you want some insight into the National Anthem kneeling controversy, watch this. If you’ve already made up your mind that kneeling is disrespectful and facts and history won’t change your mind there’s no need to watch.”

Olympic Gold medalist Abby Wambach, a former star of the US Women’s National Soccer team wrote, “No matter where you land on this issue, because I understand it’s complicated, please watch this. @BetoORourke is smart, and compassionate, and respectful of all people here. This is what leadership looks like.”

Steve Kerr, head coach of the NBA-champion Golden State Warriors, who has not shied away from hot-bottom political topics, also shared his thoughts on O’Rourke’s commentary.

“Please watch this and be reminded of what thoughtful leadership looks and sounds like. Thank you @BetoORourke for giving us a glimpse of our future. Things will get better!”