Listen To Donald Sterling’s Racist Comments; Chris Paul, NAACP, Kevin Johnson Issue Harsh Statements

Los Angeles Clippers logo (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By Brian Hews

Hews Media Group-Community Newspaper is publishing the outlandish comments by Los Angeles Clipper owner Donald Sterling.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver will be speaking to the media on Tuesday about the NBA’s findings in the investigation into the racist remarks that have sparked a controversy around the country as as far as Asia and Europe and South America.

Leaders of the NAACP here in Los Angeles released the following statement to members of the media on Monday night.

“The revelation that Mr. Sterling may have made comments in a phone conversation that were reminiscent of an ugly time period in American history that contained elements of segregation and racial discrimination demands that the Los Angles NAACP intention to honor Mr. Sterling for his
lifetime body of work must be withdrawn, and his donation to the Los Angeles NAACP returned.”

“There is a personal, economic and social price that Mr. Sterling must pay for his attempt to turn the clock back on race relations. If these statements are not who Mr. Sterling is, then he should spend the appropriate time necessary proving to the African-American community that these words don’t reflect who he is, or who he wishes to become.” The statement was signed by Leon Jenkins, who is the President of the Los Angeles NAACP.

Chris Paul

Chris Paul, who is one of the most popular players for the Clippers, is also the President of the NBC Players Association. Paul said: “On behalf of the National Basketball Players Association, this is a very serious issue which we will address aggressively. We have asked Mayor Kevin Johnson to expand his responsibilities with the NBPA, to determine our response and our next steps. As players, we owe it to our teams and our fans to keep our focus on our game, the playoffs, and a drive to the Finals.”

Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson also said: “The reported comments made by Clippers owner Donald Sterling are reprehensible and unacceptable. The National Basketball Players Association must and will play a very active role in determining how this issue is addressed. There needs to be an immediate investigation and if the reports are true, there needs to be strong and swift action taken. I have spoken with NBPA President Chris Paul and will be leading the NBPA in addressing the implications of this serious matter. I will be formally reaching out to the NBA today to determine our next steps. While I originally came on to lead the Executive Director search, this issue requires immediate attention from the Players Association. I will be keeping Chris Paul, the Executive Committee, and all player representatives informed of every step.”