National Basketball Association

New York Knicks: Jim Brown Praises Carmelo Anthony

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

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NFL legend and Civil Rights Movement leader Jim Brown praised New York Knicks star Carmelo Anthony for leading the push for social reform.

As it pertains to social activism and philanthropy amongst athletes, few have been as active as Cleveland Browns legend Jim Brown. Along with being one of the greatest players in NFL history, Brown has long been a vocal leader on the social and political fronts.

New York Knicks star Carmelo Anthony has been following in Brown’s footsteps.

Anthony made an Instagram post that sparked a necessary conversation in the sports world. The picture included Brown, Muhammad Ali, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and focused on how the legendary athletes of yesteryear used their platforms to facilitate change.

According to Chris Carlson of Syracuse.com, Brown applauded Anthony for organizing the now famous speech that he, LeBron James, Chris Paul, and Dwyane Wade gave at the 2016 ESPY Awards.

“Now what you have is LeBron and Carmelo, they know they have the ability to go beyond the field and being great players,” Brown said. “They can make a contribution to this country and this society. Although they haven’t done their homework, their attitude is good about making positive change and contributing to the welfare of the country. I’m very happy to see these young people step up.”

That’s high praise from one of the highest authorities on social activism amongst athletes.

Anthony has done more than just talk the talk. He organized a meeting between civilians and police officers in Los Angeles, and donated money to the Challengers Boys & Girls Club.

In 2016, one of the leaders of the civil rights movement amongst athletes is praising a contemporary athlete for making their stand against injustice.

That’s both awe-inspiring and disheartening.

On one hand, Brown is one of the ultimate cosigns as it pertains to fighting for equality. On the other, it’s quite troubling that, nearly 50 years removed from the Civil Rights Act of 1968, we’re still discussing the same issues.

Racism is still alive and well, and Anthony is doing what he can to fight it.

Having Brown’s support is a measure of vindication.