Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr endorsed Kamala Harris’ presidential campaign Monday during a speech at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. The nine-time NBA champion said he wasn’t concerned with the “risks” of backing a candidate.
“I know very well that speaking out about politics these days comes with risks. I can see the ‘Shut up and whistle’ tweets being fired off as we speak,” the gold medal-winning coach of Team USA said. “But I also knew after being asked as an American citizen, it was too important not to speak up in an election of this magnitude.”
Kerr spoke at the United Center, where he won three titles in the 1990s as a member of the Chicago Bulls. He told the crowd that the Harris-Walz campaign resembles that legendary squad.
“There was an amazing vibe in this building back in those days,” he said. “And I feel that same winning spirit here tonight.”
Kerr’s endorsement won’t surprise NBA fans who have followed the coach for years. The 58-year-old has used his platform to advocate for liberal causes and trade jabs with former President Donald Trump.
The Warriors won two NBA titles during the Trump administration. They didn’t visit the White House, as championship teams typically do. Instead, the squad visited the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
To close his speech, Kerr referenced guard Stephen Curry’s celebration at this year’s Olympic gold medal game. The 10-time All-Star put his palms together and held them to his head like a pillow as the U.S. defeated France.
“After the results are tallied,” Kerr said, “we can, in the words of the great Steph Curry … tell Donald Trump, ’Night-night.’”
• Liam Griffin can be reached at lgriffin@washingtontimes.com.
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