Silver 'disappointed' Warriors won't visit White House, still 'proud' of players
NBA commissioner Adam Silver has remained steadfast in his belief that if one of his teams is invited to the White House, it should go, as the honor goes way beyond just who's in power at the time.
With the news that the Golden State Warriors will not be visiting President Donald Trump after having their invitation withdrawn on social media, Silver feels it's unfortunate the reigning champions won't be able to address the leader of the nation face-to-face.
"I was in favor of the team visiting the White House and that it was a rare opportunity for these players to share their views directly with the President. I am disappointed that that will not happen," wrote Silver in an official statement.
"More importantly, I am proud of our players for taking an active role in their communities and continuing to speak out on critically important issues."
Related - NBPA president to Curry: Withdrawn White House invite 'a badge of honor'
Golden State did visit former president Barack Obama when they captured the title in 2015. Head coach Steve Kerr suggested Saturday, though, that a lot has changed since then, and that the organization's values don't necessarily fall in line with that of Trump's.
Related: Warriors release statement on rescinded White House invite
The NBPA has also chimed in with a statement of its own: "The National Basketball Players Association defends its members' exercise of their free speech rights against those who would seek to stifle them. The celebration of free expression - not condemnation - is what truly makes America great."