Meyers Leonard Defends Standing For the US Anthem

Meyers Leonard has been standing for the US Anthem, while his teammates have been kneeling to bring attention to police brutality, racial inequality and racism in America since the start of the NBA Bubble. 

He defended his position early in the season re-start, but with the added attention of the NBA Finals, he found himself back in the spotlight - even finding himself trending on Twitter after Game 1. 

“You can be both. I can love and have appreciation for the military while also feeling pain in my heart for what’s going on in America, particularly to the African American community,” #Heat center Meyers Leonard to @TheUndefeated. https://t.co/d0qjFuWogL #NBAFinals #nba #heat

— Marc J. Spears (@MarcJSpears) October 6, 2020

The 7'1'' PF/C was a throw in as part of a four team trade last offseason, with key pieces Hassan Whiteside being traded to Portland while Leonard, along with Jimmy Butler, was sent to Miami. 

He averaged 6.1 points and 5.1 rebounds while starting in 49 of Miami's 51 regular season games, but has seen little game action in the playoffs. 

Photo Credit: Chris Williams/Icon Sportswire