Why did LeBron James wear one white shoe and one black one?

LeBron James has been a vocal leader for social justice throughout his NBA career. Last night, he made another statement with his footwear.

The NBA may be the most forward-thinking professional sports league we have in the United States. Cleveland Cavaliers’ star LeBron James is the leader og the pack when it comes to social justice issues.

In Sunday’s game against the Washington Wizards, James made another statement, choosing his shoes to do so. LeBron wore one white shoe and one black shoe. “EQUALITY” was stitched to the back of each shoe. James was asked about his choice of footwear and offered the quote that Tim Bontemps of The Washington Post tweeted.

James wanted to make a statement utilizing his best platform — being on a basketball court. It just so happens that this statement was also made in the same city where President Donald Trump resides. The context of his quote can be read as a direct message to the president.

The future Hall of Fame player has been outspoken in his disdain for President Trump, including a tweet that went viral calling him a bum.  This is not the first time James has worn “EQUALITY” on his sneakers. He played in an all-black pair of the same shoes on opening night in a game against the Boston Celtics.

On the floor James had a pedestrian first half for his standards. In the locker room at half-time he chose to change his sneakers. He finished the game with a triple-double (20 points, 12 rebounds, 15 assists). He shot poorly (8-for-23) and had six turnovers in the Cavaliers win.

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Regardless of his statistical output, James will continue to use his platform to promote equality and inclusion. The NBA allowing it’s players to speak out on issues is another reason they are the most progressive league in the country.