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Women’s Empowerment: An Overview of the Latest History-Makers in Sports Today

Now more than ever, women are emerging into leadership roles in professional sports and they mean business. We highlight some of the top women leading the way in professional sports!

 
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Bianca Smith

By: Tialena Evans

Women in sports.

That’s it. That’s the tweet.

But no seriously, now more than ever, women are emerging into leadership roles in professional sports and they mean business. 

In a predominantly male field, women are slowly but surely breaking the status quo and making history. Just over the past year, we have seen more women climb to new heights in professional leagues such as full-time coaches, analysts, owners, referees, general managers and even as players.

To showcase the great deal of history being made, here is a look into the latest woman pioneers in professional sports.

1. Doris Burke

David E. Klutho / Sports Illustrated / Getty

David E. Klutho / Sports Illustrated / Getty

It is only right to start this list off with a sports media trailblazer, that is Doris Burke, also dubbed as “the Lebron James of sportscasters”. In September of last year, it was announced that she will serve as a game analyst for the NBA Finals on ESPN, becoming the first woman in history to do so for the finals on any platform.

Firsts are nothing new to the pioneering sports reporter out of New Jersey, as she actually holds the title of many. Back in 2000, she became the first female commentator for a New York Knicks game on radio and on television, the first female commentator for The Big East men’s game, and the first woman to be the primary commentator on a men’s college basketball conference package.

Doris Burke has been honored for her pioneering work, as she was selected to enter the Basketball Hall of Fame as the 2018 Curt Gowdy Media Award winner.

2. Sarah Thomas

Sarah Thomas

Earlier this month it was announced that Sarah Thomas will make NFL history as the first woman to officiate a Super Bowl on February 7th in Tampa, Florida. She will serve as the down judge. 

Thomas is truly the epitome of women’s excellence, as this is not the first time she’s made a name for herself in the history books. She became the first permanent female NFL official in 2015 and the first female to officiate an NFL playoff game in 2019.

“Sarah Thomas has made history again as the first female Super Bowl official,” NFL executive vice president of football operations, Troy Vincent Sr said.

“Her elite performance and commitment to excellence has earned her the right to officiate the Super Bowl.

Thomas has undoubtedly given women all around the world the confidence to pursue the same dreams and aspirations that she made possible.

3. Jeanie Buss

Jeanie Buss

Now, this one is pretty interesting, but nonetheless marked into the history books. 

The Lakers president made history in October as she became the first female controlling owner to win an NBA Championship. 

Before you say anything, I know what you’re thinking— “She didn’t do anything” “Magic quit, the position fell into her lap!”

Although those statements may partially be true, that doesn’t denounce that facts are facts. And honestly, without her leadership skills that she’s gained along her career, the Lakers organization could’ve gone deep into the dumps.

4. Sarah Fuller

Sarah Fuller warms up before the game against Missouri at Faurot Field.Hunter Dyke/Handout Photo/USA Today Sports

Sarah Fuller warms up before the game against Missouri at Faurot Field.

Hunter Dyke/Handout Photo/USA Today Sports

Who says women can’t play football?

Sarah Fuller made history in December as being the first woman to play and score in a Power 5 football game. 

Fuller is goalkeeper for the Vanderbilt Commodores soccer team but those checkered balls aren’t the only thing she can boot.

She kicked off for the Commodores football team against Missouri on November 28 and two weeks later against Tennessee, she kicked an extra point.

Fuller may have just open the door to the possibility of more women slapping on helmets and running out of the tunnel on game days. 

5. Bianca Smith

Bianca Smith

Black history is something that should not be celebrated lightly. Especially in a league that at one time didn’t allow an ounce of melanin on the rosters. 

Now, they run the team. 

Earlier this month the Red Sox hired Bianca Smith as a Minor League coach, making her the first black woman to serve as a coach in the history of professional baseball. 

"I don't want to limit myself and I want to go as I can," Smith said. "I want to continue to challenge myself and right now, that [goal] is MLB manager.

Smith has already broken barriers, and she has many more on her to do list. 

6. Kim Ng

Kim Ng shows off the World Series ring she won with the Yankees in 1998. Today, Ng is baseball's highest ranking female executive. Bryce Duffy/Getty Images

Kim Ng shows off the World Series ring she won with the Yankees in 1998. Today, Ng is baseball's highest ranking female executive. Bryce Duffy/Getty Images

To cap off this trailblazers list is Kim Ng. In November the Miami Marlins named her as their new general manager, making her the first woman and Asian American GM in Major League Baseball.

Ng (pronounced Ang) is not a stranger to management roles in the MLB. She joined the Yankees in 1998 after working for the American League as director of waivers and records. Then at just 29, she became the youngest assistant GM in the majors at that time. 

The Ridgewood native won her first World Series ring as the team’s assistant general manager with the NY Yankees back in ‘98. 

She now looks forward to winning her first title as a GM in the future.

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Deshaun Watson Wants Out Of Houston: The Series Of Events Leading To A Trade

A culmination of several years worth of frustration and front office let downs for Deshaun Watson has him demanding a trade. We discuss the series of events leading to an inevitable break-up in Houston.

 
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PHILADELPHIA, PA - DECEMBER 23: Deshaun Watson #4 of the Houston Texans walks off the field after the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on December 23, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Eagles defeated the Texans …

PHILADELPHIA, PA - DECEMBER 23: Deshaun Watson #4 of the Houston Texans walks off the field after the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on December 23, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Eagles defeated the Texans 32-30. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)

By: Prince Hakeem

Throughout our lives from an early age, we’re socialized and encouraged to believe that those in positions of power always have our best interest at heart. Whether it’s parents, bosses, or even the police, there’s an expectation to operate in good faith within these social contracts. While we may not understand or even agree with some of the methods or decisions made, the general consensus is that everything is done for the greater good. This usually is true…until it isn’t.

When organizations and entities turn around and end up operating in bad faith or outright lying, it’s a big wake up call to reality. At that point, it’s time to take these organizations and institutions not at their word, but rather by their actions displayed and move accordingly. As the late great Maya Angelou once famously asserted, “When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time.”

Unfortunately in the case of 25-year-old Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson, he’s now having to learn this the hard. It’s taken a couple of instances for him to believe who the Texans are and now he’s involved in an on-going dispute with the team. Watson’s good faith in the organization has been ruined and is now trying to move in his best interest. Sadly the current story surrounding Deshaun now serves as a cautionary tale, particularly for those who operate at the intersections of being black within a high profile and professional position. 

How It Happened.

These series of events didn’t just happen overnight. It’s been culmination of several years worth of frustration and let down for Watson. Most recently, it started in March when former Texans head coach and general manager Bill O’Brien traded Deshaun’s former Clemson teammate and best wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins. He was traded to the Arizona Cardinals for running back David Johnson and a couple of future draft picks. Watson, being the franchise quarterback, was made aware of the deal after it happened. While frustrated of course, Watson moved forward with leading the team. Months later, the frustration came back with more intensity when Texans management went back on a “good faith” promise made to Watson in November 2020. 

Deshaun Watson signals for a first down against the Miami Dolphins

Deshaun Watson signals for a first down against the Miami Dolphins

A month after Bill O’Brien was fired, Texans CEO Cal McNair had dinner with Watson to discuss the future of the team. McNair, the son of late Texans owner Bob McNair, expressed to ESPN that he wanted Watson’s input on the next head coach, general manager, as well as real action towards social justice initiatives. Watson and his agent David Mulugheta later spoke to McNair again over Zoom to discuss potential candidates.

In regards to the general manager job, the Texans paid search firm Korn Ferry hundreds of thousands of dollars to help in their search. They recommended Pittsburgh Steelers vice president of football and business administration Omar Khan or Monday Night Football analyst Louis Riddick — both minority candidates. Watson was strongly campaigning for Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy, one of the few black candidates, to become the next head coach. In the end, none of those recommendations were taken seriously, as the Texans went on to hire former Patriots executive Nick  Caserio. Deshaun was left very unhappy. He learned of the hire on social media like the rest of the world. 

“Watson offered input on potential general manager candidates, but the Texans neither considered nor consulted with those endorsed by their franchise quarterback,” said ESPN insider Adam Schefter. 

Watson was under the impression that his voice was going to be integral during the hiring process. Those “good faith” promises of him being involved were nothing more than just lip service it turned out, leaving him incensed. 

What It All Means: 

Let’s put thing into perspective. Watson just wrapped up his 4th year in the NFL. The former 12th overall pick from 2017 racked up 4,823 passing yards, 33 touchdowns, only 7 interceptions, and a completion percentage of 70%. Despite the personal success and numbers, his Texans team went 4-12 on the year. It was extremely disappointing to see given the commitment he gave, signing a 4-year extension worth $156 million. Both his teammates and the fan base know how valuable he is to the Houston Texans organization. Now Watson is leveraging that good faith and public capital. He wants out of Texas and is trying to force a trade.

It’s now all unraveling. When Watson found out on social media that Caserio was hired, that became the straw which broke the camel’s back. Caserio was brought in by Jack Easterby, who also spent time in New England. Watson said after the season that the organization needed “a whole culture shift.” However Easterby hiring Caserio in the same manner other Patriots alumni Bill O’Brien was hired has reportedly left Watson believing "some things never change …”.

Sources close to Deshaun stated that his anger level was "a 2. ... This time, it's a 10.” The franchise QB hasn't been returning any of Cal McNair’s phone calls as well. He’s dropping cryptic sub tweets, and there are reports that he plans on sitting out if he is not traded. Deshaun is finally believing who the Houston Texans are, and his actions prove he’s moving in HIS best interest. To see a black quarterback, in their prime, boldly stand on their convictions shows how much empowerment has shifted towards the athlete. The days of the black athlete being gaslit to just “shut-up and play” are long gone, and we’re better off for it.

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MLK Day | Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Impact on the Sports World Today

Since 1986, the 3rd Monday of January is reserved to observe and pay tribute to the legacy, of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The sports world took to social media to pay tribute and homage to this iconic Civil Rights leader.

 
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MLK Day | Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Impact on the Sports World Today

By: Tialena Evans

Every year, since 1986, the 3rd Monday of January is reserved to observe and pay tribute to the legacy, that is, of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Reflection on his impact within the civil rights movement undoubtedly pulls you to acknowledge his everlasting impact that has transcended into the sports world. Now more than ever, athletes across multiple major leagues such as the NBA, NFL, MLB and others, take Dr. King's mantra and apply it towards their efforts in making their voices heard every day. 

The topic of social justice, systemic racism and just flat out basic human rights has never stopped being in the forefront of American society. The devastating case of Trayvon Martin, a 17-year-old boy who was not served justice for his wrongful death, became the reigniting flame that shed light on the corrupt social injustices African-American’s face in everyday life.

“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere”
— Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Colin Kaepernick, who is currently an NFL free agent, has also made a name for himself as a civil rights activist over the years. His activism reign began back in 2016 during a pre-season game when he chose to sit down during the playing of the “Star-Spangled Banner”. During a post game interview, Kaepernick explained his position on why he chose to sit.

“I am not going to stand up to show pride and a flag for a country that oppresses Black people and people of color. To me, this is bigger than football and it would be selfish on my part to look the other way. There are bodies in the street and people getting paid leave and getting away with murder“, Colin said referencing a series of African-American deaths caused by law-enforcement that led to the Black Lives Matter movement. 

“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in the moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”
— Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

This famous quote by Dr. King grasps the meaning of courage, bravery, and standing up to adversity even when no one else around you stands alongside you. Although Kaepernick lost his job and continues to be blackballed by the NFL, he still holds firm in his beliefs, efforts and activism to achieve social justice in a failed system from the beginning.

Fast forward to the year 2020, the most challenging year for many Americans. For African-Americans in particular, 2020 was a year of emotional restlessness. In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, civil rights movements and Black Lives Matter protests swarmed the nation in response to the deaths of Breonna Taylor and George Floyd, who both wrongfully died at the hands of law enforcement.

Throughout the entire year, athletes across the nation took a stance with Black Lives Matter by holding unprecedented game strikes, marching in the streets with civilians and sharing their own personal messages on the social issues in society.

NFL players come together to share a heartfelt message addressing social justice.  

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that; and hate cannot drive out hate only love can do that.”
— Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Today, after an extremely tribal year, the sports world pays tribute and homage to an absolute civil rights legend. 

TNT, which is based in Atlanta, posted a video explaining the various ways the Atlanta Hawks chose to honor Dr. King.

Former and current athletes expressed their appreciation for the avenues that King opened for them.

Today, athletes make it known everyday that Dr. King‘s ingrained message and efforts towards a progressive and just society gives them the strength to continue to accomplish his dream; that one day we will be able to live in a world that is just for all no matter what you look like and where you come from.

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New York Jets Fumble The No. 1 Draft Pick

It’s been a rough year for the 2-13 New York Jets, and unfortunately for them 2021 isn’t looking any brighter. The Jets officially lose out of the no. 1 pick with back-to-back wins late in the season against the Los Angeles Rams and Cleveland Browns.

 
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New York Jets Fumble The No. 1 Draft Pick

By: Tialena Evans

It’s been a rough year for the 2-13 New York Jets, and unfortunately for them 2021 isn’t looking any brighter. The Jets officially lose out of the no. 1 pick with back-to-back wins late in the season against the Los Angeles Rams and Cleveland Browns. 

Since snapping their 13-game losing streak, the longest in franchise history, the Jets undoubtedly extend their decades-long search for a franchise quarterback. Any chance they had at snagging Clemson star Trevor Lawrence, the presumptive no.1 overall pick in next year's draft, has been seemingly passed to the Jacksonville Jaguars.

“Hey, our job is to try to go out and win every week,” says coach Adam Gase. “ It’s been too long for us to even remember what a win feels like almost.”

Sure, a win is nice. I mean that’s what you’re playing for after all. Was it the right move in this instance however? Most will say no, including myself. 

Let’s be real here, This New York franchise can’t seem to get up and running as they haven’t made the playoffs in a whole decade. It’s not like they even had a chance to make the playoffs this year either, so why not cut your losses and accept the “Browns special” (0-16 record) in exchange for some future talent? 

I guess footballs aren’t the only thing this team’s fumbled this year.

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We Don’t Need Sports, We Need Action

Sports have always been an avenue to invoke pride and change to matters at hand, but as athletes are coming together to spread awareness on necessary racial issues, professional sports may need to take a backseat.

 
Lebron in a Black Lives Matter Shirt

By: Baigen Seawell

After three months, George Floyd’s legacy still rings, Breonna Taylor’s Killers (Johnathan Mattingly, Brett Hankinson, and Myles Cosgrove) are still not indicted, and now the shooting of Jacob Blake has forced people to take the blinders off. 

Sports is and always has been an avenue to invoke pride and change to matters at hand. It’s brought us together when Katrina ripped through New Orleans, or when we had to recover from the September 11th Attacks.

But on the flip side, for many years, sports and athletes alike have been forced to keep quiet on intersections that affect them personally, race and gender being the top two. As a people, the narrative is that because we had Jackie Robinsons and Michael Jordans and Florence Griffith-Joyners, there is no racism or sexism to deal with, especially not in sport. 

Athletes such as Muhammad Ali, Colin Kaepernick, and Serena Williams show time and time again that there are things that need to be dealt with, and they have dealt with them with poise and restraint. But after the constant turmoil and tensions boiling over the symbolic pot holding in all of the extended experiences that Black athletes face before, during and after their participation...there is little restraint in this matter.  

Over the past 72 hours, athletes throughout the NBA have boycotted playing in playoff appearances. This is different from mentioning names in press conferences and post game interviews, or wearing HBCU apparel to raise awareness. Sports are going to grind to a halt, whether people accept it or not. 

Former NBA legends Kareem Abdul Jabar and Bill Russell went on strike during their time, and as the boycott ensues, this will be the first true strike collectively, excluding the four prior NBA lockouts throughout the league’s history. 

This is a major and pivotal moment in athlete activism because acknowledging intersections in athletes has been frowned upon in professional and amateur athletes. Athletes should “just play...” but in a world of social distancing, civil unrest and rising tensions, how can one focus on just playing when you are isolated in thought, in presence (in your respected bubble, or wubble) and in spirit? When the jersey comes off, reality sets in. 

Athletes of Color, specifically Black athletes are subject to stacking, targeting, and are faced with sociological backlash regularly. Be it Black athletes being acknowledged for their physical nature instead of intellect, like their white counterparts, or being prevented equal pay and opportunities due to the gender gap… or finally, witnessing violence against our fellow Black people. Things have been sliding for entirely too long over these three months, and it’s time to bring things to a screeching halt.

Policy changes have been delayed for the sake of bringing things back to “normal,” however, things cannot and will not be returning to normal. 

Sports can no longer be used to assuage the mind state of those who use it as a tool to keep citizens pacified, as it did for centuries in numerous cultures. We cannot use the dramatic spectacle to pretend that this is normal, because none of this is normal. Sports should not have come back, nor should they have been considered to resume. 

As players continue to boycott, tensions keep rising, and the ball is now in the court of policy makers, general managers and league commissioners everywhere to make the decision of how to invoke action and facilitate change...without using sport as a scapegoat.

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Chauncey Gardner-Johnson Receives Backlash on Commentary of Black Athletes’ Interest In HBCUs

Saints Safety, Chauncey Gardner-Johnson received backlash for implying that Black athletes would be settling if they attend HBCUs over PWIs.

 
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Chauncey Gardner-Johnson Receives Backlash on Commentary of Black Athletes’ Interest In HBCU’s

By: Baigen Seawell

It’s been one month since George Floyd’s passing. We’ve seen progressive work done in many avenues, especially in the realm of Higher Ed, to emphasize and empathize with Black students, and student-athletes. 

Black athletes who once attended PWI’s, those who have committed to them, and had interest have shifted their views on the institutions. The SEC and Conference USA has threatened to halt their Championships until the Confederate Flag is banned in the states which it’s still used. We’ve also seen an uptick in interests from black athletes to attend HBCU’s instead of PWI’s.

For some, this is great news. But for others, it’s all performative. 

Saints Safety, Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, stated that the prospects are “Just talking they not trying to settle regardless of what’s going on […] they only saying that for clout.”

 
 
 
 

This commentary brought a storm of backlash from HBCU Alumni and Advocates. It questions the rhetoric of HBCU Athletes who had the opportunity to go pro, despite them going a different route than other athletes. 

 
 

The Fact of the Matter 

The problem with the comments made from Gardner-Johnson is that although HBCU Athletes are present in the NFL, NBA, and many other professional leagues, HBCU’s were and are where many pro-athletes found their beginnings. Shannon Sharpe (Savannah State), Buck Buchanan (Grambling), and a countless list of others found their claim to fame at HBCU’s throughout the 20th century. 

In the modern era, though ten percent of all NFL players are HBCU made, it would be a travesty to say that any of these athletes settled for where they are today. One can’t question the institution the athlete attends and question the operations of the employer they are seeking interest in. 

In an article written by The Undefeated, Redskins senior personnel executive and Grambling State Alum, Doug Williams discussed the administrative procedures in recruiting collegiate prospects. 

“I know, since I’ve been in the administration part of it, that some of these scouts are inclined to give a guy at an FBS school who has not played at all more of an opportunity than a guy who’s played four years at a historically black college […] I think what we have to do is don’t judge the school. We’ve got to start judging the player. It’s all about opportunity.”

It goes to say that “settling” is not what these athletes are doing in the slightest. The spotlight seems to flood FBS and FCS institutions during draft season. This leaves little room for HBCU’s to display their talents for the next level to see. What would have been the first HBCU Combine hosted by the league would be cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, closing the door of opportunity to tap into 51 players' talents at these institutions. 

Though Gardner-Johnson argues that we should monitor and hold accountable college prospects who are interested, HBCU athletes are not settling for an opportunity. It would be a disservice to say this, being that his teammate,Terron Armstead is a product of University of Arkansas, Pine Bluff.

To say that one is settling when choosing an HBCU, goes against the walking testaments that defy this argument in his own locker room.

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Going Digital: NFL & WNBA Drafts Put Up Record Numbers Virtually

The NFL and WNBA drafts put up record numbers through virtual broadcasts, showing potential in what the WNBA could be if the stage is set for them.

 
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Tyasha Harris Drafted as the 7th Overall Pick to the Dallas Wings | Photo by G Fiume/Maryland Terrapins/Getty Images

Tyasha Harris Drafted as the 7th Overall Pick to the Dallas Wings | Photo by G Fiume/Maryland Terrapins/Getty Images

By: Baigen Seawell

“For the first time in what feels like forever, a real live sporting event.” said ESPN Analyst, Schefter on the 2020 NFL Draft. 

What Schefter failed to realize was his own employer broadcasted the first virtual draft on April 17, a week prior. The WNBA delivered their most watched draft in 16 years. The league garnered a viewership of 6.5 million, despite the new format and unsure expectations that would come along with it. 

The fly-on-the-wall view into prospects’ homes, coaches and GMs makeshift workspaces, the virtual draft has been an interesting look into the ins and outs of how front offices make things happen despite everything going against them. 

The WNBA

The WNBA saw a 237 percent increase in minutes watched from the previous year. Aside from the numbers, the 2020 WNBA Draft Class has some talent that people are eager to see on the court. Oregon’s Sabrina Ionescu would be the first pick, taking her talents to the New York Liberty. Ionescu, closed out with over 2,000 career points, and an all-time leader in assists, steals and triple-doubles.

Aside from Ionescu, and the Ducks, the University of South Carolina had back-to-back picks from their SEC Championship team. Mikiah Harrigan and Tyasha Harris take the sixth and seventh picks overall, going to Minnesota and Dallas Respectively.

The League would also take a moment to honorarily draft Alyssa Altobelli, Gianna Bryant, and Payton Chester, the three Mamba Academy teammates lost from the 2020 Calabasas Helicopter Crash. Bryant was the daughter of Laker Kobe Bryant, who also lost his life in the crash. 

Though the WNBA is considered to gather less attention than the NFL, the success and growth in numbers from the League being put on the main stage is a testament to the longing for the return of sports. At the same time, it shows a potential in what the WNBA could be if the stage was set for them this way more. 

 
 

The NFL

Six days later, the NFL opened their virtual draft with 15.6 million viewers. This broke the all-time viewership record. To add, the SEC would tally up a record number of 15 players in the first round alone. 

The 2020 Draft Class highlights LSU Tiger and Heisman Trophy Winner Joe Burrow coming in as the first pick overall to Cincinnati. Alabama’s Henry Ruggs III would be the first pick to go to the newly relocated Las Vegas Raiders, and twelfth overall. The Packers go with an eye-opening pick, selecting Quarterback Jordan Love to join Aaron Rodgers in Green Bay. 

The draft has gathered attention from sports fans anxiously waiting on sports to make its reappearance. Being one of the largest sports markets, the league is expected to start in late August. Questions are still up in the air with a few months until the final 53-man roster is finalized.  

Where We Stand With Sports

Although we closed out with two sporting events in what seems like forever, we felt a sense of normalcy for a moment. However there isn’t a clear date of when sports like will come back. The WNBA was projected to start May 15, 2020 but with news of a second wave being ‘inevitable’ according to health officials, it is unclear. 

To add, the WNBA has been making moves before and after the close of the draft. With player transactions still taking place, the uncertainty for WNBA basketball is apparent for front offices and players alike. But, if given the platform when given the all clear, they may garner the well deserved attention they’ve been battling for. 

For the NFL, Goodell has met with political leaders on what may be the best way to keep the season on track while preserving the health of athletes and spectators. The timeline is a bit longer for them, but the uncertainty is still apparent, not wanting to come back too prematurely.

The NFL officially released the 2020 schedule. The WNBA and their male counterpart are still in limbo, with the NBA issuing voluntary practices with the lifting of quarantine practices in some states. Though it seems to be a glimmer of hope, players are reluctant to return, and sports fans are hopeful to see competition return swiftly and safely.

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NFL Draft: ESPN Romanticizes Black Athletes' Tragedies On The Biggest Stage

The NFL draft was full of stories of overcoming adversity, but why does ESPN choose to romanticize the tragedies of Black athletes on the biggest stage? We discuss it here!

 
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NFL Draft: ESPN Romanticizes Black Athletes' Tragedies On The Biggest Stage

By: Baigen Seawell

With the constant news of the global pandemic, the NFL Draft was our escape…something to let us forget the craziness that was going on around us. But what’s up with all of the morbid backstories? 

We start with Tua Tagovailoa, who struggled with injuries throughout his college career at Alabama. This started conversation on whether or not Miami would pass up on another QB opportunity like they did Drew Brees over two decades before. 

The story of overcoming adversity made for a great narrative, we loved to see it. 

But then it got weird…

The first comment I picked up on was at the 11th pick overall: Mekhi Becton, a 6’7” OT from from Louisville. The announcers pointed out his speed, size, followed up with a comment discussing his weight being linked to his mother’s occupation of catering in soul food. 

This remark was insensitive, but wasn’t nearly as eye opening as the talking points that would follow. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Car accidents, coronavirus, conduct violations, drug addiction, ESPN and the NFL made it a point to highlight the tragic upbringing of as many prospects as possible, and nearly all of them were black.

At the close of the draft, there were over 20 tragic backstories from athletes. It would be posted at the bottom of athletes’ stat line like a trivial fun fact, and shock value would transform to desensitization.

 
 

But why are tragic backstories so clickbait? 

THERE’S BEAUTY IN THE STRUGGLE

J. Cole said it best: “There’s beauty in the struggle.” The “Rags-to-Riches” story is as old as time. Tragedy and struggle are socially and psychologically linked and ingrained in media’s culture. A sense of satisfaction rushes over us when we see someone who faced so much hardship to achieve their goals. 

Struggle brings more traffic to a story than privilege, especially in sports; we find interest in the rise, fall and rise again of a Vick over the streamline of a Manning or Rodgers. Though the latter faced some minor conflicts through their careers, the former has a much harrowing tale that becomes something that can have a full docuseries created around it. 

Black athletes in particular face adversity regularly on their road to the top, and after the goal is met. Criticism from analysts, financial hardships, and on and off the field conduct add onto their troubled past. For them, it becomes fuel to go harder, and prove critics wrong, for mainstream media, it becomes an irresistible story, no matter how minor 

 
 

This isn’t ESPN’s first time glamorizing tragedy; reporter Mina Kimes’ most popular story is DeAndre Hopkins’s mother, who was an exotic dancer, drug dealer, and finally, gruesomely faced an assault from her then-boyfriend’s mistress. It became one of the most talked about backstories in 2019, despite him Watson being in the league for six years already.

The Jerry Jeudys, Kristian Fultons and Jordan Loves were sprinkled with stories of tragedy, which overshadowed the largest success that they met for the night: being drafted by a league that only drafts less than five percent of the draft eligible population. Lest we forget where we came from on the way, but it’s not 100 percent of our makeup.

These men are more than their backstories, they’re not pinned to their stats on the field or their upbringing. There’s an importance of highlighting the successes and aspirations they have moving forward. Though tragedy makes a good backstory, triumph and continued success makes for something with a much better shelf life.

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Former NFL Quarterback Tarvaris Jackson Passes Away At 36

Former NFL quarterback Tarvaris Jackson passed away Sunday night in a car crash at the age of 36.

 
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Former NFL Quarterback Tarvaris Jackson Passes Away At 36

By: Omar Cook

Former NFL quarterback Tarvaris Jackson passed away Sunday night in a car crash at the young age of 36. The crash happened about 7 miles outside of Jackson's hometown of Montgomery, Alabama after his vehicle struck a tree and overturned. .Tarvaris Jackson spent 10 years in the NFL after being drafted 64th overall in 2006. Jackson spent time with the Minnesota Vikings and Seattle Seahawks after his college career at Alabama State University.

Jackson most recently served as the quarterbacks Coach at Tennessee State University.

"My heart is so heavy with hurt hearing of the passing of Coach Jackson," said Tennessee State director of athletics Teresa Phillips. "We were blessed with him for a short time but he did make an impact with our young men in this one season at TSU. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his young family and all who knew and loved him."

 
 

Jackson finished his career with 7263 yards and 39 touchdowns in 59 career games. He won a Super Bowl with the Seattle Seahawks in 2013. Jackson is a major inspiration to many especially in the Black College football world after being one of the few Black quarterbacks to be drafted out of the SWAC conference and sustaining a lengthy NFL career.

Jackson is survived by his wife, Lakitta, and three children, Tarvaris, Takayla and Tyson.

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8 Sports Documentaries To Binge While You #StayAtHome

Here are 8 Sports Documentaries to quell your sports palate while you stay at home!

 
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8 Sports Documentaries To Binge While You #StayAtHome

By: Baigen Seawell

While we adjust to the “new normal”, the world of sports comes to a screeching halt. Athletes at every level come to terms with the uncertainty of what to expect. Announcers and anchors have found solace in repurposing their studio around their  home and family life, while still having time to check in and give glimmers of hope with an occasional sports update. 

In the meantime, from a spectator’s standpoint, we get to be immersed with what could be considered the “Good Ol’ Days”. Games tracing back months, years, and decades prior; they bring waves of nostalgia to keep us occupied while we stay at home. 

While I’ve been hunkered down, I’ve found interest in rewatching and discovering sports documentaries. Apart from reruns of games and SportsCenter highlights, documentaries give an in depth and personal look on the topic, while giving a cinematic vibe for the viewer. 

Here’s 8 Sports Documentaries to quell your sports palate. 

1. The Dark Side of the Ring - VICE

The Dark Side of the Ring

The Dark Side of the Ring gained traction with the covering of Chris Benoit, a Canadian wrestler who became overshadowed by the tragic murder-suicide now tied with his name. But VICE covers the likes of many wrestlers in the industry, from Tony Atlas, to Eddie Guerrero. For the unconventional sports buff, this may be the series for you. 

2. The Death of Will Smith - VICE

The Death of Will Smith - VICE

The Death of NFL Star Will Smith covers the tragic and seemingly avoidable death of the New Orleans Saints Defensive End. Smith was a catalyst in the 2010 Saints Super Bowl run, who faced an untimely death over a roadside scuffle. VICE strictly covers the side of Cardell Hayes, the man behind the killing of smith for the majority of the documentary. The narrative discusses the “legal and local bias” against Hayes while digging up some touchy subjects in the process.

3. The Ghosts of Ole Miss - ESPN

The Ghosts of Ole Miss - ESPN

The Ghosts of Ole Miss discusses the deep rooted history of racial segregation. Directly covering University of Mississippi and the integration of their first black student, James Meredith and the 1962 Ole Miss Riots. The story goes into detail of the history of Ole Miss, and the deep rooted racism at the time where Ole Miss went undefeated the year Meredith would enroll at the institution. 

4. Benji: The True Story of a Dream Cut Short

Benji: The True Story of a Dream Cut Short

Benjamin Wilson was a high school phenom out Simeon High School who was considering numerous offers at the height of his basketball career. He lost his life, while the basketball world could only imagine what could have been if he hadn’t been gunned down. Benji covers Wilson’s brief moment here on earth, along with highlighting his talents. 

5. Without Bias - ESPN

Without Bias - ESPN

ESPN covered the life of 1986 Draft Pick Len Bias, who would have been a Boston Celtics hopeful. Like Wilson, his career was cut short. With Bias dying from a drug overdose, the sports world would stop in its tracks. Without Bias paints the picture of the David Stern-Era, where basketball would gain a surge of popularity, along with having some of the biggest names to ever play in the game. Like Benji, we can only speculate of what could have been if Bias played in the league.

 
 

6. The Carter Effect - Netflix

The Carter Effect - Netflix

In Toronto, Canada, basketball was not what it is today over two decades ago. It was also when Vince Carter would make his debut as a Raptor, virtually changing the face of basketball in the country rapidly. The Carter Effect features rapper and Toronto native, Drake, former NBA Guard, Steve Nash, and more to discuss the direct and quick growth, decline, disdain and forgiveness for Carter and his career starting out in the Six.

7. Let Them Wear Towels - ESPN (Nine for IX)

Let Them Wear Towels - ESPN

A personal favorite for me. Let Them Wear Towels is an ESPN Nine for IX, which directly discusses women’s rights and the evolution of women in the world of sports. The documentary follows numerous female pioneers in sports journalism. Though Sports Media is still a largely white male dominated field, we can appreciate the growth and diversity that chips away at the glass ceiling. Let Them Wear Towels shows how far we’ve come and how far we still have to go.

8. No No: A Dokumentary 

No No: A Dokumentary

No No is a doozie. This documentary is at the top of the list for a slew of reasons, from the backstory, to the shock and awe at the athletic prowess. It covers the life of Dock Ellis, an MLB pitcher who struggled with an addiction to amphetamines, and alcohol. More impressive, yet disturbing, Ellis pitched a no-hitter… on LSD. This documentary has a bunch of twists and turns to keep you satisfied. 

There is your personal list of documentaries to intrigue you while you’re bored in the house and the house bored. Let me know what other documentaries you find interesting! And as always, stay safe!

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XFL Star P.J. Walker Journeys Back Into The NFL For A Second Chance

Former XFL quarterback P.J. Walker found himself back on an NFL roster with the Carolina Panthers after lighting up the XFL this past season. Will this be a breakout opportunity for the rising QB? We discuss it here!

 
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P.J. Walker with the Houston RenegadesTroy Taormina - USA Today Sports

P.J. Walker with the Houston Renegades

Troy Taormina - USA Today Sports

Former XFL quarterback P.J. Walker found himself back on an NFL roster as he signed a 2-year, 1.57 million contract with the Carolina Panthers. This news came about only a day after it was announced that Carolina had released their franchise quarterback, Cam Newton. 

Although Walker made it to the NFL back in 2017, this upcoming 2020 season could be the first time that we actually get to watch him play in-game. Walker managed to get picked up as an undrafted free agent by the Colts shortly after the draft, but was eventually waived later that Fall and signed to the practice squad. Unfortunately he was the case of uncertainty, causing him to be on and off the practice squad for the next two years. Indianapolis eventually released Walker for good September 2, 2019.

Although things didn't quite work out for Walker during his time in the big league, he caught a less than surprising break as the newly formed XFL drafted him for the 2020 season. He was assigned to the Houston Roughnecks and led his team to an undefeated 5-0 season, which was cut short due to the Coronavirus outbreak.

P.J. Walker Scores For The Houston RenegadesTroy Taormina - USA Today Sports

P.J. Walker Scores For The Houston Renegades

Troy Taormina - USA Today Sports

Walker managed to become the big talk of the league, and deservingly so the frontrunner as the MVP favorite. He was named the XFL’s first ever Star of the Week with a four touchdown win, led the league in passing touchdowns with 15, and led the league in passing yards with 1,338 over only a 5 game span.

The XFL’s legitimacy was well solidified in its opening season, and even seen as a solid gateway league into the NFL. Although Walker was the first to be called upon, many others have found their names being called to the big league. Even with the season being cut short due to the coronavirus outbreak, five weeks were all that some players needed to stand out as potential NFL talent. To this date 14 XFL players have been signed by NFL teams.

 
 

Now, while Walker has recently gained some professional experience under his belt, his time back into the NFL will be far from a smooth welcoming. He’ll be battling for the starting quarterback role as Carolina also signed Teddy Bridgewater to a 3-year, $63 million deal. The former pro bowler hasn’t had the smoothest journey through the league but showed promising potential in being Carolina’s savior as he replaced Drew Brees, who suffered from a right thumb injury in week two. Bridgewater threw for 1,384 yards and 9 touchdowns, all of while collecting five straight game wins for the New Orleans Saints.

P.J. Walker gets Coaching from Matt Rhule at Temple

P.J. Walker gets Coaching from Matt Rhule at Temple

One advantage that Walker may have over Bridgewater is his connection to Carolina’s new head coach, Matt Rhule. Walker accepted an athletic scholarship to Temple University and played under coach Matt Rhule from 2013-2016. Walker started as a backup to Connor Reilly, but eventually earned the starting role. Throughout his collegiate career he collected multiple accolades, including the 2016 AAC Conference Championship Game Most Outstanding Player Award, CFPA National Player of the Year watch list, and Davey O’Brien Award watch list. Walker also holds most of the university’s records, such as all-time leader in wins by a starting quarterback, passing yards, passing touchdowns, completions, attempts, total yards, and total touchdowns. To cap it off, he led the owls to their first conference title in 49 years in 2016, and their first ever back to back bowl game appearance in school history in 2015 and 2016.

Walker would be filling in for some very big shoes as a starter for Carolina after they parted ways with their franchise quarterback Cam Newton. The former MVP took the Panthers to their first playoff win in nine years, first back to back division title in the NFC South, three consecutive playoff appearances, and led his team to only their 2nd Super Bowl with a 15-1 regular season record. He was nicknamed as “Superman”, and rightfully so, as he was not only the franchise hero, but a hero the city of Charlotte and the fans as well.

While P.J. Walker is not Superman, who's to say he can’t be Carolina’s knight in shining armor to save them from this bad dream?

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"They Gave Up On Me" - Cam Newton Prepares For Redemption

Cam Newton faces a defining moment in his career as he searches for redemption after being released from the Carolina Panthers.

 
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Grant Halverson/Getty Images

Grant Halverson/Getty Images

By: Omar Cook

Cam Newton has led the Carolina Panthers at the quarterback position for the past 9 seasons, but the Panthers have decided to go in a new direction and release the veteran QB. The Panthers have only one winning season in the past 4 years and have added Teddy Bridgewater and XFL star P.J. Walker to the QB room as they search for a new leader. So what’s next for the 30 year old quarterback?

Adversity hits us all but this is a major turning point in Cam Newton’s career and will be a defining moment for him in how he handles this adversity. The team that is favored to land Newton is the Washington Redskins but of course there will be plenty of options for him to land as teams can always use a veteran at QB.

Newton took to instagram to post a video of his working saying “All I know is work…they gave up on me.”

Cam Newton played in just 2 games last season after suffering a season ending foot injury and getting off to an 0-2 start. It’s an unfortunate situation for Newton but it could also be a story of true redemption. Newton is talented to say the least but moving past the injuries and adjusting to a new team will be a challenge.

Newton has thrown for 29,041 career yards 182 touchdowns and 108 interceptions with an 86.1 passer rating. His career regular season record is 68-55-1 and 3-4 in the playoffs. Newton has a plethora of experience but ultimately has failed to take the Panthers to the next level as an organization.

The former #1 pick is no stranger to hard work and I would fully expect that if he stays healthy, a highly motivated Cam Newton will have a redemption season. Stay tuned for where Newton will land this off season.

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Russell Wilson And Ciara Pledge 1 Million Meals In Relief To Coronavirus Pandemic

Russell Wilson and Ciara have made a pledge a donate 1 million meals to the Seattle community which has been deeply affected by the coronavirus.

 
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Russell Wilson And Ciara Pledge 1 Million Meals In Relief To Coronavirus Pandemic

By: Omar Cook

Professional athletes are leading the way in providing relief to people in need during the coronavirus pandemic. We are all in this together and it’s imperative that people who are in position to help will step up and lead.

Russell Wilson and Ciara have made a pledge a donate 1 million meals to the Seattle community which has been deeply affected by the coronavirus.

Other athletes that have made pledges to aid in coronavirus relief include Zion Williamson, Kevin Love, Rudy Gobert, and Blake Griffin just to name a few. It’s a good thing to see guys take leadership in this situation and give back to less fortunate.

One thing that I’ve noticed from social media is not only the positive reinforcement from people being happy about these contributions, but also there have been negative comments over athletes publicly announcing their intent to give back.

What people fail to realize is this is not a popularity contest, but a matter of individuals with good intentions giving to a cause. This is not the time to express jealousy or hate to others especially as they are helping out in a major way. Again, we are all in this together and we should all hope that those are in positions to help, will do so.

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Did The Browns Make The Right Decision Signing Kareem Hunt?

The Cleveland Browns wasted no time signing Kareem Hunt this off season to a 1 year deal, but coming off of a recent domestic violence incident…was it the right move?

 
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Did The Browns Make The Right Decision Signing Kareem Hunt?

By: Omar Cook

The NFL has been under scrutiny for a number of reasons lately including the lack of physicality in gameplay now, the national anthem protests, and how they have handled domestic violence incidents. Kareem Hunt was a star running back for the Kansas City Chiefs before being released early last season after video footage showed him assaulting a woman. Of course Kansas City made the right move by immediately releasing him because domestic violence is nothing to be played with.

Hunt went unsigned for the remainder of the season and it seemed as if this incident was going to be the early end to a promising young career. It’s unfortunate that certain athletes find themselves in trouble over situations they can control, and this was a mistake that was costly for him. It hasn’t taken long for him to bounce back though now that the Cleveland Browns decided to sign Hunt during this off season. You have to ask, what kind of message are the Browns and NFL sending by letting this happen so soon?

 
 

I’m all for second chances, and I understand people make mistakes, but did he really learn his lesson. We’ve seen incidents like this before most notably with Ray Rice and the assault on his wife. Rice was pretty much exiled from the league and hasn’t touched the field since. What makes this situation any different? The obvious answer is the Cleveland Browns are trying to turn their organization around and Kareem Hunt is a premier talent that can help them win. At the end of the day, this is about winning. We’ve seen Colin Kaepernick get black balled from the league for making a statement on his beliefs, but yet it seems as if domestic violence gets a pass from the league now.

This is a huge statement from the Browns about how they deal with cases like this and one that has many people shocked at how fast he got signed. Hunt was placed on the Commissioner’s Exempt list after being released by the Chiefs which means he cannot practice or play with the team until the NFL finishes it’s investigation on the incident. This will result in the NFL deciding on whether Hunt will serve suspension for a number of games which would start week 1 of 2019. In the football world, the Browns made a good decision by signing this back early before another team jumped on him. But morally speaking, this is too soon. The NFL hasn’t even concluded it’s own investigation on the incident and the message it sends to women and fans is that the NFL takes domestic violence lightly.

Talent trumps all. If you can be a playmaker, it seems there will always be a spot for you in the NFL, no matter what you do…just as long as you don’t kneel for the anthem.

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Deshaun Watson Is Handling Racist Views On Black Quarterbacks With Class

Black quarterbacks are always under fire and judged at a higher standard than their white counterparts. Deshaun Watson responds to a recent comment about the play of black quarterbacks with pure class!

 
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Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports - Deshaun Watson

Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports - Deshaun Watson

“When you need precision decision making you can’t count on a black quarterback”
— Lynn Redden, Superintendent of Onalaska Independent School District in Onalaska, Texas

By: Omar Cook

Black quarterbacks are always under fire and judged at a higher standard than their white counterparts. One of the biggest stereotypes of black quarterbacks is that they are only good as athletes and not for their arm talent. And now you can add lack of “precision decision making” to the list of black quarterback stereotypes.

After the Houston Texans week 2 loss to the Tennessee Titans, Lynn Redden, the superintendent of the Onalaska Independent School District in Onalaska, Texas, took to facebook to give his racist opinion on Deshaun Watson’s play. “When you need precision decision making you can’t count on a black quarterback” said Redden. When asked about the post he said he regretted but “Over the history of the NFL, [black quarterbacks] have had limited success.” What??

This has to be one of the most casually racist things to say, and it’s crazy that people just let things like this “slip” out of their mouth so easily, better yet on social media. But this is a school superintendent. These are the people that are in positions of influence that feel this way about black athletes and black people. And of course they always regret or feel bad after they get caught saying it.

Being a black quarterback in the NFL has to be the toughest job there is because people will judge your every move, and wait for the moment you mess up to criticize you, as if they could do the job better. Deshaun Watson has been awesome since entering the league, so to judge him off of a bad play in a game because of his skin color is extremely low.

But of course, Deshaun Watson responded back with class:

"But I'm all about love, [so] I don't focus on [any] of that. I love all people. And that's what I focus on. It's part of life. I can't control other people and what their beliefs are. I can control what I can control, so I just focus on me, and that's it."

Texans Head Coach Bill O’Brien also came to Watson’s defense.

"I really don't want to waste a lot of time responding to outdated, inaccurate, ignorant, idiotic statements," O'Brien said. "I'll just let Deshaun's proven success on the field, his character off the field, speak for itself. He's one of the greatest guys I've ever coached. He represents everything that's right about football, about life…His teammates respect him, his coaching staff respects him, and in this day and age, it's just amazing that this B.S. exists. But it does. But we're moving forward."

 
 

It’s 2018 and we’re still dealing with the stereotypes on black players as quarterbacks. At what point do we come to an understanding that race has nothing to do with being able to play a position, and that black quarterbacks are just as capable if not more capable of playing the position than their white counterparts? Who would’ve predicted that in 2018, racism would still exist? But here we are.

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Will Le'Veon Bell Play Football This Season?

Heading into week 3, Le’Veon Bell is showing no signs of ending his holdout. Will we see Le’Veon Bell play football this season?

 
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Will Le'Veon Bell Play Football This Season?

By: Omar Cook

The Pittsburgh Steelers are 0-1-1 after dropping their home opener to the Kansas City Chiefs, 42-37 and ending the season opener in a tie with the Cleveland Browns. After an almost non existent rushing performance against the Chiefs, it’s safe to say the Steelers could use their all-pro runningback. Le’Veon Bell continues to make his case for a long-term deal instead of signing his $14.5 million franchise tag and plans on continuing his holdout going into week 3.

It doesn’t seem Bell is too pressed about not being in uniform right now though as he is sitting back living his best life right now. Bell celebrated the release of his new music project, "My Side of Things" EP at Rockwell nightclub in South Beach while also taking some time to go jetskiing earlier in the day.

Le’Veon Bell Performs At the Rockwell Nightclub in Miami

After being franchise tagged for the second straight season, it’s understandable that Bell is frustrated as he is looking for a long term deal that will pay him more, and deservingly so. In the past 2 seasons, Le’Veon Bell has accounted for 3830 total offensive yards and 20 touchdowns. Bell is definitely a dynamic athlete that deserves a big time pay day but at this point, it seems as if both sides are being very petty.

The NFL ranked Bell as the fifth best player on the top100 players list in 2017, but didn’t even rank in the top 50 highest paid players. So to his defense, he’s right, he should be getting paid. Todd Gurley signed a 4 year, $60 million deal with $45 million guaranteed and a $20 million signing bonus. To say that Le’Veon Bell doesn’t deserve this kind of money is an understatement, so this explains the waiting game. Le’Veon Bell holding out for this long is a huge statement by an individual, but it is a move that is definitely warranted.

To make matters worse, star receiver Antonio Brown was a no show at practice on Monday after the week 2 loss. The Steelers can’t afford to lose anymore star power at this point. A far as we know, Bell isn’t showing up until he gets paid so it’s hard to say if we’re going to see him in a jersey this season at all. Unfortunately, this is the ugly side of the NFL where the business part can take away from the raw passion of the game.

The Steelers are going to need the tandem of Le’Veon Bell and Antonio Brown if they want to make a case for AFC North champions this season. James Conner is a great addition to the Steelers but he’s no Le’Veon Bell and all should Steelers fans should be praying that both sides can come to an agreement so that we can see some electrifying plays in the run game this season.

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The NFL’s New Policy Tells Black People Their Lives Do Not Matter

It’s no secret that police brutality disproportionately affects the lives of people of color, specifically African Americans. So why does the NFL turn a blind eye? Deveney Marshall discusses how the NFL’s new policy tells black people their lives do not matter!

 
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Colin Kaepernick takes a knee before the anthem

By Deveney Marshall 

It’s no secret that police brutality disproportionately affects the lives of people of color, specifically African-American people. I can remember being a little girl and seeing police officers hanging around in high-risk crimes areas, I used to believe they were doing their jobs and protecting us from the bad people. Then I grew up, and realized just how oppressing this country is to all of its’ non-white citizens. I noticed police officers were not hanging in high crimes areas, but in areas that were highly populated with Black residents and they were looking for excuses to turn those people into yet another statistic.

For a very long time most people turned a blind-eye to this type of oppression. Then social media took over and people began to record the mishandlings done by police officers and upload them. After awhile it became difficult for non-believers to deny police brutality was a real problem in this country and the differences in how Black people were treated by the police compared to their racial counterparts.

Following the numerous killings of black people by the hands of police officers and no real justice being served for their murders, the hashtag #BlackLivesMatter was coined. People all around the world began to chant the phrase when yet another black person’s life was taken due to police brutality. However, the hashtag was not well met by everyone.

Once the hashtag #BlackLivesMatter became very popular due to social media and college activists, it was plagued with some heavy scrutiny. Ill-informed individuals felt as if the hashtag was anti-white and prioritized the lives of black people over everyone else. They critiqued the hashtag as creating more of a division than being the political statement against police brutality it was. Some even went as far as replacing the black in the hashtag with blue to show their support for officers, further proving they missed the entire point of the protest or just didn’t care.

After the countless displays of disrespect for Black people’s lives, on September 1st, 2016 Colin Kaepernick, the quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers, decided to take a knee during the national anthem to silently protest the police brutality taking place around the country. Although Kaepernick acted within his constitutional and civil right to protest as an American citizen, he was met with criticism that sparked a national debate about the right way to protest. Following the scrutiny Kaepernick’s received, he publicly spoke on why he felt the protest was necessary stating:

"I have great respect for the men and women that have fought for this country. I have family, I have friends that have gone and fought for this country. And they fight for freedom, they fight for the people, they fight for liberty and justice, for everyone. That’s not happening. People are dying in vain because this country isn’t holding their end of the bargain up, as far as giving freedom and justice, liberty to everybody. That’s something that’s not happening. I’ve seen videos, I’ve seen circumstances where men and women that have been in the military have come back and been treated unjustly by the country they fought have for, and have been murdered by the country they fought for, on our land. That’s not right."

Still, after giving this concise statement, he was continuously met with negative remarks. Instead of the focus being on why he was kneeling in the the first place, the conversation became more centered around Kaepernick’s disrespect towards the flag and people in service. Criticizers made it their missions to misunderstand his protest, just as they did with the #BlackLivesMatter hashtag.

However, Kaepernick didn’t allow the criticism of his protest to stop him. He continued to kneel at every game for the entire 16/17 season. His political stance to stand-up to the wrong-doings of this country, sparked something in others that viewed this country the same way that he did. Other athletes began to take a knee, and after awhile the dialogue finally became about the real problem.

Following the 16/17 season, Kaepernick was released from the 49ers, and another team refused to sign him as a quarterback for the upcoming 17/18 season, which lead to an uproar of people everywhere deciding it was officially time to take a stand against not only this country’s mistreatment, but the inner-workings of it as well, like the NFL. Finally, NFL players made the collective decision to take a knee and join Kaepernick’s protest.

For the entire 17/18 season footballs players across the league participated in taking a knee, and some were even joined by their team owners as well. However, once again, the conversation steered away from why people were protesting and became more about the act of protesting itself. Critics of the #TakeAKnee movement argued football players had to no right to involve themselves in politics and to just “stick to football.” Some even went as far as to say football players weren’t intellectual enough to partake in such a layered conversation. Undermining the fact that many of these men are college educated and face adversities such as police brutality.

Once the 17/18 season was completed, and the NFL was gearing up for the upcoming 18/19 season, the league came to the agreement to put a policy in place to fine all football players who decided to take a knee on the field during the national anthem.

When the news broke that the NFL was putting this policy in place, I remember feeling so unbelievably upset. Taking a knee is probably one of the most peaceful ways a person could protest, yet it being chastised as if it was a violent act. The implementing of this policy spoke volumes about how the league viewed not only black lives, but the livelihoods of its’ many black players.

Colin Kaepernick raises fist after a game

As I dissected why the NFL would enforce this policy, nothing truly substantial came to mind. All I could think about was how 1. This was a way for the league to capitalize on the pain of black people; 2. This was the league’s very coy way of saying “shut up, and just play ball; and 3. How all the above was just another way to reiterate to black people everywhere that our lives did not matter.

Often, this country tells black people in every way that our lives are not as valued as the lives of other races. Whether it’s subliminally with policies like this one that penalizes us for questioning our oppression or us being blatantly taunted and killed and never receiving justice for it, america makes it very clear where it stands. At this point as a black American I am downright “sick and tired of being sick and tired.” Our existence as black people is not a burden. However, that is not how the NFL or the world sees it. Sadly enough, Black lives only matter if they are not compromising profits and the comforts of non-black people.

*Deveney Marshall is a New Orleans-based filmmaker, actress, and freelance writer. She runs the lifestyle & beauty website thedevandthecity.com . Follow her thoughts & life on twitter and IG: @devandthecity 

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The NFL Is The New Sunken Place

Stand up or get fined. Shut up and play. Tell us how you really feel NFL. Where is the disconnect?

 
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Aldon Smith is introduced by Commissioner of the National Football League Roger Goodell as the seventh pick to the San Francisco 49ers at the NFL Draft 2011 at Radio City Music Hall in New York, NY.

Credit: Debby Wong via Shutterstock

The NFL, the National Football League, the field of dreams! Let's call it for what it is, it's the actual sunken place. The NFL as a corporation is trash. The commissioner, trash. The owners, super trash. And the President who endorses all the bs surrounding the league, is the garbage collector. 

"You have to stand proudly for the National Anthem and the NFL owners did the right thing if that's what they've done," stated Trump in an interview with Fox News. "You have to stand proudly for the National Anthem or you shouldn't be playing. You shouldn't be there. Maybe you shouldn't be in the country."

New England Patriots take a knee during the national anthem

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell instituted a new policy that will require NFL players to stand for the anthem or face fines, with the alternative option of staying in the locker room. This is the equivalent of shut up and play, and completely ignores the entire agenda of why players were kneeling in the first place. 

Black players make up nearly 70 percent of the NFL. Out of 32 teams, there are only 8 black head coaches. Even more staggering is that out of 32 teams, there are ZERO black owners. So here lies the problem; black players are being used purely for entertainment purposes only and are a minority in terms of true leadership positions in the NFL. This new policy which is supported by the commissioner and its owners is a way to silence the voice of the players, and save face for the league which is trying to protect its fan base and finances. 

Colin Kaepernick takes a knee during the national anthem

This is all about money. The NFL tv ratings were down 9.7 percent in 2017, mainly due to fans being upset over players kneeling during the anthem. A policy such as this shows that the NFL truly has no loyalty to the players, no true integrity to American values and freedom of speech, and that they only care about ratings and money. It's a business, sure, but at what point do you begin to show respect for your employees?

At a time where racial tensions and issues are rising, black players have chosen to use their platform to bring awareness to social injustices in black communities, police brutality, and racial issues. Still, there are fans and obviously executives within the league who either can't comprehend what the protests are about, or simply just don't want to.

The NFL refuses to acknowledge the collective voice of its black players, so maybe it's time the black players ignored the NFL. What will it take for black players to truly take a stand and collectively sit out a few games until some real change is made, or is the paycheck that comes with playing more important than the stand they are trying to make? If even half the black players sat out for a game, there would be no game. How much of a backbone do you really have, players? Because clearly the league doesn't have one and they don't want you to have one either. 

San Francisco 49ers take a knee during the national anthem

There are fans who still can't clearly comprehend the reason the players are protesting in the first place. But It’s not that they can’t comprehend it, they just refuse to acknowledge the reality behind the protests. The notion that they are there purely for entertainment and should protest on their own time is tone deaf. If the same issues were happening consistently in the white community, we wouldn’t be having these discussions.

Protests are not meant to be done at a specific time that’s convenient to certain, but meant to gather your attention. Black people never have a choice at a given time that they have to endure whatever problems they deal with,  so the convenience of the players protesting by kneeling is unfortunate to some because it somehow messes up their "entertainment." Now let's be clear, we all love the entertainment factor that sports and football brings, but at the end of the day there are more important things in life which is what these players are trying to bring attention to.

Here’s the kicker, if black people started rioting in the streets and beating up police officers the way they beat us, shoot up schools the way these kids are doing now, we would be seen as animals. But they have merely chose to protest in a peaceful manner and it’s become a major deal. But still, there are people who have chosen to ignore the issues, but put their focus on the actual action of kneeling during the anthem, which is apparently disrespectful to them. Black people feeling disrespected is cool as long as they protest in a manner thats not disrespectful to you? 

The NFL is already facing criticism for the poor product they put on the field as a result of new rule changes, and this new policy is only going to make it worse. Certain NFL players have begun to speak up on twitter and interviews, but is just simply speaking up enough?

The NFL has made its move, now what will you do? You still watching?

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Sports 1 Omar Cook Sports 1 Omar Cook

SOB’s and Hypocrites: The State of the NFL

If anyone were to give a state of the NFL address, this could accurately describe the current state of one of America’s most popular sports.

 
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RODGER MALLISON / FORT WORTH STAR-TELEGRAM - Dallas Cowboys Take a Knee Before The Anthem

RODGER MALLISON / FORT WORTH STAR-TELEGRAM - Dallas Cowboys Take a Knee Before The Anthem

“Wouldn’t you love to see one of these NFL owners, when someone disrespects our flag to say, `Get that son of a bitch off the field right now! Out. He’s fired! He’s fired!” This controversial statement did not come from an angry fan…but from the President of the United States. If anyone were to give a state of the NFL address, this could accurately describe the current state of one of America’s most popular sports. 

The NFL has already been surrounded by controversy with NFL players causing media frenzy with protest demonstrations during the national anthem drawing mixed feelings amongst fans across the country. So much has been going on that people are beginning to forget what Colin Kaepernick’s original protest was all about. Kaepernick’s original protest was to bring attention to police brutality, and inequalities in black communities. Kaepernick has been virtually blackballed by every team in the NFL because of this and continues to remain unemployed. Now let’s take a look at some of the NFL’s biggest hypocrites and phonies. 

Donald Trump’s statement about the player protests sparked rage across the league, so much so that just about every team had players displaying some type of protest during or before the national anthem. Where were all these protests when Kaepernick was catching fire for his views? It took for the President of the United States to call players SOB’s for teams and owners to make statements and protests against the President. But the protests were just that, they were against the President and not for the cause of social justice or any other issue plaguing the black community. 

Dez Bryant, Hypocrite. When asked about his initial stance on the kneeling during the anthem, Bryant stated “Whatever they got going on with that, that’s them...I don’t really have nothing to say about that.” Dez Bryant wanted no parts of showing Kaepernick’s protest support but as soon as the President says something disrespectful, I guess it is okay to kneel now. What exactly are you protesting Dez?

Ray Lewis, Hypocrite. Ray Lewis was very clear in telling Kaepernick to stick to sports and keep his social activism off the field. But after the President’s comments, he was seen not taking just one knee, but two knees! “I dropped on two knees, both knees, so I could simply honor God in the midst of chaos,” Lewis said trying to clarify his position on his actions. Shannon Sharpe, a former teammate of Lewis was extremely bothered by his actions and called him out on it: 

“Ray Lewis sat in that chair right there and said that he could never kneel,” Sharpe said. “He could never not stand for the national anthem, because so many people died, and he had family members that fight for this country for the opportunity — and the flag means so much to him. And he kneeled. Not on one knee, on both knees. So what were you kneeling for? You kneeled, you showed solidarity, because of what President Trump said? And when Colin Kaepernick is trying to draw attention to the injustices going on, you deem that inappropriate?.” 

Sharpe brought attention to the issue of phony protests and called a spade a spade. 

Jerry Jones, Hypocrite. Out of all the NFL’s biggest phonies this weekend, Jerry Jones takes the cake. “I do not think the place to express yourself in society is as we recognize the American flag” Jones stated, “So that’s not the place to do anything other than honor the flag and everybody that’s given up a little bit for it.” Once again, it took a controversial statement from the Commander in Chief for Jerry Jones to get down on a knee before the anthem to make a protest. What are you protesting Jerry Jones? Jerry Jones is a business man and this move of kneeling before the anthem was solely to make a statement disregarding the President’s comments. 

So which one of these kneeling owners will hire Kaepernick now that he is not the only protester? Crickets.

NFL owners have been very reluctant to sign Kaepernick, but it almost seems as though it has nothing to do with talent. No team wants to deal with the media frenzy that comes with signing Kaepernick. One could argue that by signing Kaepernick, that team or owner would be making a political statement by having him apart of the team, and it is very clear, that the owners do not sit well with Kaepernick’s views. 

Somewhere in the midst of all of this, fans of the NFL have forgotten what the purpose of Kaepernick was for. Instead of seeing players speak out on justices, we are seeing teams make statements directed toward the President. The NFL has turned into a political spectacle and instead of tuning into the games, fans are more interested in seeing what the players will do before the game. 

The issues still stand; what about police brutality? What about the injustices people of color deal with on a daily basis? These issues have taken a backseat because the President has effectively turned the focus away them and pointed the fans focus in a direction that makes people believe they are being disrespectful to military and the flag. The same flag that is supposed to stand for peace and equality for all Americans. The same military that fights for the rights of all Americans to have freedom of speech and peaceful protest. Maybe if Kaepernick had led a march with NFL players carrying torches, the President might be calling the players “very fine people.” 

Kaepernick’s demonstration during the national anthem seemed to have brought out “protest experts” from all over the country. Instead of worrying about the actual issues Kaepernick protested, the biggest issue has been how he did it. The whole point of protest is to make people uncomfortable so the point can get across. Needless to say, whether you agree with how he did it or not, Kaepernick was extremely successful in getting his point across because here we are a year later, still talking about it. At the very least, we are starting to have the discussions that people of color have been trying to have for year. Virtually, Kaepernick sacrificed his career to be a voice for the people who have no voice. The issues he is fighting for may not be resolved at this point in time, but the fact that they are being brought to the surface for all Americans to see is progress itself. 

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