One of those right-wing cable TV talking heads blasted LeBron James as "ignorant" for his criticism of Donald Trump, admonishing him to "shut up and dribble."
The Cleveland Cavaliers-Golden State Warriors NBA finals start on Thursday, and I look forward to watching James dribble, shoot, pass, rebound, block shots and, if he feels compelled, speak out.
He just might be the greatest basketball player ever. He's also impressive off the court.
In the spotlight since he was a junior in high school, he has been a near model citizen, never getting in trouble and giving back tremendously to the community. He's intelligent and has a right to voice his views, including heartfelt criticism of Trump .
In fact all athletes have every right to use their fame to speak out on broader matters – as do entertainers, evangelical preachers, business people, TV talk show hosts and even columnists. No one has to agree or even listen.