One of the most popular and beloved NBA stars, LeBron James, has caused a wave of negative reactions after publishing a controversial tweet on his account, which he wrote in response to the recent murder of 16-year-old Ma'Khia Bryant by a police officer.
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The tweet, which has since been deleted, contained a photo of Nicholas Reardon, the police officer who fatally shot Bryant, for holding a knife during a fight.
Above the photo were the words “ YOU'RE NEXT #ACCOUNTABILITY ,” along with an hourglass emoji. LeBron later decided to take down the tweet entirely, explaining that it was “being used to create more hate.”
LeBron wrote:
«I am so tired of seeing black people killed by police. I removed the tweet because it is being used to create more hate – It is not about this particular officer. It is about the entire system and they are always using our words to create more racism. I am so desperate for more accountability.»
The popular player posted more tweets on his account regarding the issue.
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Now, various conservative figures and commentators are publicly urging sponsors to stop working with LeBron altogether, while also asking his fans to boycott the upcoming film he stars in, Space Jam 2.
Author Candace Owens wrote:
«If America was a country that believed in justice, all sponsorships of LeBron James should be withdrawn.»
Director Jack Posobiec wrote:
«Space Jam boycott. LeBron threatens police.»
A bar in Ohio even announced that it would stop broadcasting LeBron's games, in protest, until he is expelled from the NBA.
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On Facebook, Jay Linneman, owner of Linnie's Pub, wrote:
«If anyone wants to watch an NBA game, don't come to Linnie's Pub. We won't be broadcasting them until LeBron James is kicked out of the NBA.»
LeBron didn't seem particularly concerned by this ban, making a sarcastic tweet:
«Oh! I was going there to watch our game tonight and have a drink!»
