[ad_1]
A delegation of NBA players traveled to the Vatican on Monday to meet with Pope Francis to discuss the league’s efforts to tackle social injustice.
The National Basketball Players Association sent five players – Kyle Korver, Jonathan Isaac, Marco Belinelli, Sterling Brown and Anthony Tolliver – to meet with the Pope “to discuss their individual and collective efforts to tackle the social and economic injustices and inequalities that are occurring. produce in their communities. The NBPA said in a press release.
JAYSON TATUM, CELTICS ACCEPT 5-YEAR CONTRACT EXTENSION: REPORT
Sources told ESPN that an aide to the Pope initially requested the organization of the meeting because of his desire to hear about their recent work and future plans to resolve ongoing issues.
“We are extremely honored to have had this opportunity to come to the Vatican and share our experiences with Pope Francis,” said Milwaukee Bucks forward Korver. “His openness and eagerness to discuss these issues was inspiring and reminded us that our work has had a global impact and must continue to move forward.
The meeting, which lasted about an hour in the Papal Library of the Apostolic Palace, was quickly put into place with the season scheduled for December 22.
DONOVAN MITCHELL SIGNS 5 YEAR EXTENSION OF CONTRACT WITH JAZZ
“You are champions,” Pope Francis said, according to the Associated Press. “But by also setting the example of teamwork, you have become a role model, setting this good example of teamwork but still remaining humble … humanity.”
NBPA General Manager Michele Roberts and Matteo Zuretti, NBPA Head of International Relations, were also in attendance.
“This meeting validates the power of the voice of our players,” said Roberts. “The fact that one of the world’s most influential leaders sought to have a conversation with them demonstrates the influence of their platforms. I remain inspired by the continued commitment of our players to serve and support our community.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE AT FOXNEWS.COM
The hearing took place days before the release of a book in which Pope Francis supports demands for racial justice, particularly the action taken after the murder of George Floyd, who was black, on May 25 as he was being held by Minneapolis Police.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
[ad_2]
Source link