LeBron James Spoke Passionately About Martin Luther King Jr. And His Lasting Legacy

LeBron James has used his media availability to speak about a wide range of issues well beyond basketball. It’s a role that he’s embraced over the years, becoming not just the biggest name in basketball but also a powerful voice in society and politics.

So it wasn’t a surprise when LeBron addressed the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. on his birthday and day of remembrance on Monday. With an NBA slate starting early in honor of the holiday, James took the time to give a nine-minute commentary that even surprised a few members of the media.

James spoke not just about Martin Luther King Jr. but also politics today, something he’s certainly spoken about in the past. Here’s a brief big of his thoughts captured by USA Today reporter Michael Singer.

“He had a vision and he took a bullet for all of us — literally,” James said according to WKYC in Cleveland. “…For us to stand here, even though we’re trying to be divided right now by somebody, today is a great day for people to realize how America was built and how we all have to stand united in order to be at one, especially as Americans because we all know and we all believe this is the greatest country in the world.”

James tried hard not to name Donald Trump, but he did reference him and the “Difficult state” the country is currently in.

“We are in a difficult state right now as Americans as well with the leader of our country, but no matter the religion, no matter the shapes or size, we all have to continue to come together and shine a brighter light on, I hate to use the word stupidity, but that’s basically what it comes down to,” James said.

James said people need to stay involved in their communities and promote creativity and awareness among our youth. He also said he knows change doesn’t happen quickly, calling it more of a marathon than a sprint.

“The state of racism will never die, but what we cannot do is allow it to conquer us,” James said. “As people, we cannot allow it to divide us. The guy in control has given people and negative racism an opportunity to be outspoken without fear, and that’s the fearful thing for us, because it’s with you and it’s around everyday.”

James also tweeted using a King quote on Monday.

We’ve come to expect eloquence from James in times like this, and we’re rarely let down. That LeBron embraces these moments to speak is still something that feels powerful, especially in the current age. While other superstars in other sports may shy away from the spotlight in moments like these, James always seems ready.