Picture Credit: Twitter
The Boston Celtics and the Golden State Warriors mutually decided to use Game 2 of the NBA Finals to convey a strong message on Sunday at Chase Center. Players of both the teams don orange "End Gun Violence" T-shirts as they take the court for Game 2 in San Francisco. Notably, America has witnessed a series of gun violence in recent times that sparked outrage amongst all walks of society.
A nationwide effort has been taking place to raise awareness and start a conversation about gun violence in America. Amongst many, two incidents shook the core of everyone as it included an attack at a Buffalo supermarket on May 14 that left ten dead and a massacre at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, that left 22 dead.
The Warriors head coach Steve Kerr, who made an emotional plea for gun reform following the Uvalde shooting, explained his position in his pre-game press conference. He expressed his views by stating that we are doing all these gigs to spread a message that prevailing issues demand immediate action and prompt response from our lawmakers.
"We can't put the lives of the next generation at stake. We need to take action which prevents them from such a massacre in future. We have a huge responsibility on our shoulders," said Warriors head coach Steve Kerr. He further added, saying that most American citizens want sensible gun laws that would limit gun violence.
Celtics head coach Ime Udoka also spoke on the matter and stated that many people would watch this game, and we want to use this opportunity to convey the right message. "This terrible form of hatred must be stopped immediately. Laws need to be changed, and it should happen immediately; we all are on the same page as far as gun violence is the subject. Wearing this is really about things that continue to happen in our communities. They're devastated by it, their families are devastated, and we go on with our normal life and business," he said.
Even American teenage star Coco Gauff wrote, "Peace. End gun violence," on the courtside camera after she won the semi-final game at French Open. Several sports teams and federations, including the Philadelphia Eagles and the United States men's national soccer team, have recently called for gun reform in the country: