National Basketball Association

Gregg Popovich respects players protesting national anthem

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich respects players and their decision to protest ahead the upcoming NBA season, where players are expected to join Colin Kaepernick's movement of sitting or kneeling during the national anthem to raise awareness about racial injustice in America.

“I absolutely understand why they're doing what they're doing and I respect their courage,” Popovich told reporters.

Popovich played basketball and later at the Air Force Academy. He also served five years of active duty and believes Kaepernick did not intend to disrespect any members of the military with his protest.

“For instance, with Kaepernick, a pretty good group of people immediately thought he was disrespecting the military,” he added. “It had nothing to do with his protest. In fact, he was able to do what he did because of what the military does for us. Most thinking people understand that, but there’s always going to be an element that wants to jump on a bandwagon, and that’s what’s unfortunate about our country. It’s gotten to a point where the civility and the level of discourse is basically in the gutter.”

Watch Popovich's comments below:

NBA stars LeBron James and Stephen Curry have voiced their support for Kaepernick but said that they plan to stand during the national anthem. 

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