Clippers' Rivers opens up about personal encounters with racism
Los Angeles Clippers head coach Doc Rivers opened up about his personal experiences with racism Sunday amid nationwide protests over the killing of George Floyd.
"My father was a 30-year veteran of the Chicago Police Department, and if he were still with us right now, he'd be hurt and outraged by the senseless acts of racial injustice that continue to plague our country," Rivers said in a statement. "Being black in America is tough.
"I've personally been called more racial slurs than I can count, been pulled over many times because of the color of my skin, and even had my home burned down."
Rivers challenged his fellow Americans to both use their voices and exercise their right to vote in November's presidential election.
"This isn't an African-American issue," Rivers said. "This is a human issue. Our society must start getting comfortable with the uncomfortable conversation and do the right thing. ... The day has come to confront real problems, and be part of the solution."
On Saturday, Detroit Pistons head coach Dwane Casey issued a similar call for action.
Jaylen Brown of the Boston Celtics and Malcolm Brogdon of the Indiana Pacers were among numerous NBAers who took part in protests Saturday.
Clippers guard Lou Williams pledged $25,000 toward the bonds of Atlanta-based protesters.