Fansided

Chris Paul and the NBPA issue statement on Donald Sterling

By Trisity Miller

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Donald Sterling
Apr 3, 2014; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers head coach Doc Rivers talks with guard Chris Paul (3) during the first half of the game against the Dallas Mavericks at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports /

The wave of statements are coming in. We’ve gotten one from almost everyone involved with the NBA, from Charles Barkley to Magic Johnson toLebron James.

Now Clippers point guard has spoken on the matter. Being brief on the subject, Paul decide to release his statement through the National Basketball Players Association as he is the president of the group.

“On behalf of the National Basketball Players Association, this is a very serious issue which we will address aggressively. We have asked Mayor Kevin Johnson to expand his responsibilities with the NBPA, to determine our response and our next steps. As players, we owe it to our teams and our fans to keep our focus on our game, the playoffs, and the drive to the Finals.”

At this moment, Paul is the only player on the Los Angeles Clippers roster that has spoken out on the Donald Sterling racist tape that surfaced through TMZ Sports.

With Paul saying little, he allowed Kevin Johnson, former NBA player and current mayor of the city of Sacramento, to release a more in-depth statement on the matter as Paul continues to prepare as he’s leading his team through the playoffs.

“The reported comments made by Clippers owner Donald Sterling are reprehensible and unacceptable. The National Basketball Players Association must and will play a very active role in determining how this issue is addressed. There needs to be an immediate investigation and if the reports are true, there needs to be strong and swift action taken. I have spoken with NBPA President Chris Paul and will be leading the NBPA in addressing the implications of this serious matter.”

“I will be formally reaching out to the NBA today to determine our next steps. While I originally came on to lead the Executive Director search, this issue requires immediate attention from the players association. I will be keeping Chris Paul, the Executive Committee, and all player representatives informed of every step.”