Whether you’re a fan of the Banana Boat Boys or not — and there are plenty of reasons to dislike some or all of them individually — you have to respect them for making it their business to open the ESPYS with some social commentary on a pressing societal matter.
The quartet of LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Chris Paul and Carmelo Anthony opened the 2016 ESPYS by talking about the social issue involving blacks and the police, and they encouraged other athletes to use their platforms and influence to affect change.
Here’s the video:
You should not be surprised to learn that the players themselves had the idea to do this and asked for the opportunity.
Carmelo, LeBron, Dwyane Wade & Chris Paul asked to open the ESPYs w/this speech on race/the police. Wanted to call other athletes to action.
— Rachel Nichols (@Rachel__Nichols) July 14, 2016
This is exactly what set athletes like Muhammad Ali and Jim Brown apart from the rest — their awareness of social issues and willingness to speak out when necessary. We admire this group for taking a stand and speaking out. This is one extra reason why we have tremendous respect for LeBron James. He has always made it his business to take a stand when it comes to certain social matters, like the Trayvon Martin murder.
