OPINION:
I can’t believe the National Basketball Association isn’t aware that they are in the middle of a huge, self-inflicted public relations nightmare (“Trump says NBA turning into a ’political organization,’” Web, Aug. 27). As an NBA fan I was disappointed when they shut down in March. When I heard they were starting up again I was excited and looking forward to the restart. But what did I see that first two weeks before I turned them off? They forced a narrative on me and millions of other Americans that the majority of white Americans are racists. They painted the majority of law-enforcement officers as both corrupt and racist.
The NBA players have sent a toxic message to a large segment of their fan base. They have greatly overreacted in their portrayal of the problem. What has been the reaction from millions of NBA fans? They were mad and remain so. Yet the NBA acts clueless to this reality.
Sports teams, players and organizations do not understand that fans tune in to their games as a diversion of their problems. Sports fans do not want to hear the opinions of players or coaches who are themselves not exactly perfect. In fact, the vast majority of professional athletes are far from role-model material. Fans want to enjoy the game and the entertainment, period.
MICHAEL HART
Kokomo, Ind.
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