25 years ago, the United States was sent into a frenzy as the Rodney King verdict led to riots in Los Angeles. It is one of the key events in a history of racial tension within the country.
The frightening event had a profound impact on sports, as well, in particular forcing the Los Angeles Lakers to host a playoff game in Las Vegas instead, a game which they would lose, eliminating them from the postseason.
On the 25th anniversary of the riots, Jerry West – the Lakers’ general manager at the time – reflected on his feelings at the time and his current views on an issue that still clearly plagues the country.
Following via an interview with Bob Nightengale of USA TODAY Sports:
“That bothered me, that bothered me a lot, and it still bothers me today,’’ says West, 78, the Hall of Fame player who is now an executive with the Golden State Warriors. “I always try not to be judgmental about things, and I believe that police have the most difficult job in the world, but when I saw that tape, I couldn’t believe it. I couldn’t even watch it. I didn’t know what perpetuated it, but I just could not believe that any man, regardless of what happened, warranted that.
“So I understood why people were angry, I really did. I was angry, too. Oh, my God, it was just a powder keg that went off. It was a horrible time for me, a horrible time for this community.
“In the course of this country’s history, you’re supposed to learn from the past, and not replicate history.
“Unfortunately, we keep repeating it.’’
Profound words from West who admitted his own naivete about race relations before entering the NBA.
This is obviously still a problem, one that sports (the NBA in particular) have attempted to find a voice in. Plenty of stars today have spoken out about police brutality and other racial issues. It’s good to see an NBA legend add his name to the mix, even if it’s to recount his own feelings during a dark time.
