Senior University of Virginia guard London Perrantes posted a photo on Twitter of the entire men’s basketball team kneeling in support of San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick’s protest against police brutality and civil rights injustice in America.
Kneel for Injustice. Kneel for Equality. ✊🏼 Using our platform to help creat change. TOGETHER! pic.twitter.com/7AEA3mH63B
— London Perrantes (@London_Tyus) September 29, 2016
Kaepernick first began protesting by sitting during the national anthem in a preseason game in August. He subsequently altered his protest by taking a knee during the Star-Spangled Banner.
Since Kaepernick’s protest, the Super Bowl veteran has gotten a wave of support not only across the NFL, but from college and high school athletes as well. Seattle Reign forward and Team USA player Megan Rapinoe has joined Kaepernick’s protest.
Virginia’s cross-state rival, Virginia Tech, had already taken a different approach in regards to Kaepernick’s form of protest during the national anthem. Virginia Tech head coach Buzz Williams brought in a group of veterans to teach his players the importance of showing respect during the national anthem.
While the team has not actually taken a knee during the anthem at a game, at least yet, the gesture of support may be carried out throughout the Cavaliers’ season.
Virginia starts their first game of the season on Nov. 11 against UNC Greensboro.
• Tommy Chalk can be reached at tchalk@washingtontimes.com.
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