In the NBA, there has been a long-held tradition of championship-winning teams making a visit to the White House in Washington, D.C. As most hoops fans know, the Golden State Warriors claimed the Larry O’Brien trophy last season. As a result, the same presidential invite was extended in their direction. However, some members of the team, including Steph Curry and Kevin Durant, made it clear that they intended to vote “no” on the trip.
On Friday, the Warriors held their annual media availability day. Curry, now a two-time champion, sat down with ESPN’s Rachel Nichols to discuss his decision.
“We have an opportunity to send a statement that, hopefully, encourages unity, encourages us to just appreciate what it means to be American, and stand for something,” Curry said. “Whatever your opinion is on either side, we want to take advantage of this opportunity.
“It’s not just about me,” Curry continued. “It’s not just about K-D. It’s about the whole team, and what we were able to accomplish as a team, and the opportunity that historically has been afforded to championship teams. We’ll have that conversation, obviously. And we’ll do it as a group and we’ll have one voice.”
After hearing of Curry’s unwillingness to visit the White House, President Trump took to Twitter to rescind the invitation all together, saying: “Going to the White House is considered a great honor for a championship team. Stephen Curry is hesitating. Therefore, invitation is withdrawn.”
Going to the White House is considered a great honor for a championship team.Stephen Curry is hesitating,therefore invitation is withdrawn!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 23, 2017
President Trump’s tweet caught the eyes of many early Saturday morning, including Cleveland Cavaliers superstar LeBron James. While it’s true that they are considered rivals on the basketball court, James came to Curry’s defense on this matter, posting a fiery message of his own.
“U bum @StephenCurry30 already said he ain’t going! So therefore ain’t no invite. Going to White House was a great honor until you showed up!”
U bum @StephenCurry30 already said he ain't going! So therefore ain't no invite. Going to White House was a great honor until you showed up!
— LeBron James (@KingJames) September 23, 2017
They may have clashed in the NBA Finals for the past three years, but it seems James and Curry are on the same page in this book.
