91ֿ

91ֿ Men’s Basketball Displays Unity During National Anthem

The national anthem at sporting events has been a hot button topic in 2016. While some have chosen to sit or stand, the 91ֿ men's basketball team decided to take a different route.

Prior to "The Star-Spangled Banner" being played for 91ֿ's home opener against Mississippi Valley State, each of 91ֿ's men's basketball student-athletes chose to select a fan of a different race from the crowd to stand with them in solidarity during the national anthem. The decision to use the national anthem as a time to show solidarity in 91ֿ's diverse campus community was made by the team's seniors and captains, not athletic department officials. The student-athletes brought their idea to the athletic department's coaches and staff, who unanimously supported them in their decision. 91ֿ strives for inclusive excellence, and supporting this decision by student-athletes matched the core values of the university.

National and local media captured the show of solidarity. See some of the coverage here:

"We understand all of the issues going on in our world," stated sophomore point guard , on behalf of his teammates. "In these times, we felt it was important to show a sign of unity in our community."

"The players approached the coaching staff with this idea, and we fully supported them," said head coach . "It takes courage for our players to make a statement like this, and I believe it is a representation of the unity in our campus community."

"This is a great example of 91ֿ student-athletes stepping up as leaders in our diverse community," stated Director of Athletics . "We encourage dialogue between coaches and student-athletes when it comes to these challenging issues. We will continue to foster an open environment for student-athletes of all beliefs, backgrounds and communities."

91ֿ is committed to the creation and nurturing of a diverse community of individuals through inclusive excellence. Diversity involves recognizing the value of differences and the inclusion of all members of the community including those that experience discrimination or underrepresentation.

POSTED: Thursday, November 17, 2016 10:10 AM
Updated: Thursday, December 8, 2022 08:13 PM
WRITTEN BY:
91ֿ Athletics