On Friday evening, Trump went to war with black athletes. He fired the first shots during a rally in Alabama, saying NFL owners should can any player who kneels during the national anthem, a jab at free agent quarterback Colin Kaepernick. "Get that son of a bitch off the field," he said to applause.
Stephen Curry said he'd skip a visit to the White House, to which Trump responded: No, I'm breaking up with you. Lebron James in turn called the president, "U bum." Oakland's Bruce Maxwell became the first MLB player to kneel during the anthem. Even NFL commissioner Roger Gooddell issued a statement blasting Trump's "divisive" rhetoric.
Today is game day, and we've already seen acts protest on the field. Expect more when the Seahawks play the Titans in Nashville today at 1:05 pm. UPDATE: Sports Illustrated journalist Albert Breer reports that both teams plan to remain in their locker rooms during the anthem. Here's a statement from the Seahawks players:
As a team, we have decided we will not participate in the national anthem. We will not stand for the injustice that has plagued people of color in this country. Out of love for our country and in honor of the sacrifices made on our behalf, we unite to oppose those that would deny our most basic freedoms. We remain committed in continuing to work towards equality and justice for all.
Before today's game, take a look at what Seahawks players, coaches and owners have said already:
Defensive end Michael Bennett, who has sat during the national anthem this year:
My mom is a beautiful lady she has never been a bitch
â Michael Bennett (@mosesbread72) September 23, 2017
Cornerback Richard Sherman:
The behavior of the President is unacceptable and needs to be addressed. If you do not Condemn this divisive Rhetoric you are Condoning it!!
â Richard Sherman (@RSherman_25) September 23, 2017
Richard Sherman wants to address how the President is dividing the country. pic.twitter.com/lWQhR0ARpZ
â The Players' Tribune (@PlayersTribune) September 24, 2017
Wide receiver Doug Baldwin:
Statement from Seahawks wide receiver Doug Baldwin. Maybe my favorite response thus far. pic.twitter.com/MpH2Y1dC44
â Dave Zirin (@EdgeofSports) September 23, 2017
Coach Pete Carroll:
pic.twitter.com/nsP9t7iJOM
â Pete Carroll (@PeteCarroll) September 24, 2017
President Peter McLoughlin's statement, also tweeted by owner Paul Allen:
A statement from Seahawks President Peter McLoughlin pic.twitter.com/vGzMj0TFmz
â Seattle Seahawks (@Seahawks) September 24, 2017
Did we miss any Seahawks player's response? Let us know in the comments.