Spurs’ Popovich, NBA stars embrace social activism Popovich, NBA stars embrace social activism

Spurs coach Gregg Popovich keeps his emotions in check as he addresses the media a day after Tim Duncan announced his retirement from the game on Tuesday, July 12, 2016. Popovich wore a t-shirt with the likeness of Duncan as he reflected on his relationship with the 19-year Spurs veteran and talked about his contributions to the team and to him personally. (Kin Man Hui/San Antonio Express-News) less Spurs coach Gregg Popovich keeps his emotions in check as he addresses the media a day after Tim Duncan announced his retirement from the game on Tuesday, July 12, 2016. Popovich wore a t-shirt with the ... more Photo: Kin Man Hui, Staff / San Antonio Express-News Photo: Kin Man Hui, Staff / San Antonio Express-News Image 1 of / 24 Caption Close Spurs’ Popovich, NBA stars embrace social activism 1 / 24 Back to Gallery

C.J. McCollum was in the presence of Gregg Popovich twice in the last two weeks of 2016, but failed to express his gratitude to the longtime Spurs coach for something unrelated to basketball.

McCollum, the 25-year-old Portland Trail Blazers guard, wanted to make Popovich aware of his adulation. He admired Popovich’s backbone, exhibiting the courage to speak his mind and not be concerned with any repercussions, as Popovich joined professional athletes across America in speaking out against social injustice.

“I am extremely appreciative for all that he’s said and done, not only in off-the-court matters, but with the way he approaches the game,” McCollum said. “The way he teaches and reaches out to people. … He’s got a special skill and a special talent, and the world is a better place because of it.”

Social activism among athletes is nothing new.

Muhammad Ali spoke out. Bill Russell, Jim Brown and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar did, too. And who can forget the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City? Tommie Smith and John Carlos’ raised-fist, “Black Power” human-rights salute during the medal ceremony completely overshadowed the 200-meter event.

Nearly half a century later, a new movement is under way, especially in the NBA. Players such as LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony, Dwyane Wade, Chris Paul and Damian Lillard are using their platforms to fight racial injustice, violence and tension facing America with a new presidential administration set to take office in less than a week.

Where America is headed with Donald Trump as the 45th President of the United States is a mystery. Will the racial divide, as well as gender and income inequality, intensify or improve? Time will tell.

One thing is certain: Social activism thrived in 2016 throughout professional sports. Athletes are advancing conversations more than ever before, hoping that it will make a difference today and for years to come.

Go to ExpressNews.com to read more about the new wave of social activism among NBA players.