Alexander Mils, Deposit Photos
Orlando Magic reportedly donated $50,000 to a super PAC supporting Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ presidential bid back in May, a few days before DeSantis launched his presidential bid.
Earlier this month The National Basketball Players Association slammed the donation, calling it “alarming given recent comments and policies of its beneficiary”.
ESPN said the players’ union statement “comes after DeSantis made comments supporting Florida’s new African American history standard that says some Black people benefited from slavery.”
“NBA governors, players and personnel have the right to express their personal political views, including through donations and statements,” the NBPA statement said. “However, if contributions are made on behalf of an entire team, using money earned through the labor of its employees, it is incumbent upon the team governors to consider the diverse values and perspectives of staff and players.
“The Magic’s donation does not represent player support for the recipient.”
The donation also drew criticism from New Orleans Pelicans forward Larry Nance Jr. on social media.
“So the @OrlandoMagic who have a majority black roster, a black head coach, and a black GM decided it was a good idea to support a man that claims that slavery had personal benefits for the enslaved?” Nance posted Wednesday.
DeSantis trolled the criticism, tweeting “It appears the NBA took a break from protesting our anthem and bending the knee to Communist China to chirp about my policies.”
The NBA has been criticized frequently for ignoring China’s ugly track record on human rights as it courts the communist country’s financial backing. One owner said, “Nobody cares about what’s happening to the Uyghurs,” who are among the victims of China’s human rights abuses. NBA icon LeBron James also has been criticized for cozying up to China.
Governor Ron DeSantis is currently running for the Republican nomination for President in 2024 election.
