In response to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ comments, the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) expressed concern over a $50,000 gift he received, deeming it “alarming.”
The National Basketball Players Association expressed concern on Thursday about the Orlando Magic’s $50,000 donation to a super PAC supporting Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ presidential campaign. They found the contribution alarming, considering the recent comments and policies of the candidate it supports.
“NBA governors, players and personnel have the right to express their personal political views, including through donations and statements,” the NBPA statement said. “However, if contributions are made on behalf of an entire team, using money earned through the labor of its employees, it is incumbent upon the team governors to consider the diverse values and perspectives of staff and players.
“The Magic’s donation does not represent player support for the recipient.”
After DeSantis expressed his endorsement for Florida’s new African American history standard, which includes the controversial claim that some Black people benefited from slavery, the Orlando Magic’s donation to the super PAC was revealed in federal filings. Joel Glass, the Magic’s chief communications officer, stated that the contribution was made on May 19, just a few days before DeSantis officially announced his presidential candidacy.
“It was given as a Florida business in support of a Florida governor for the continued prosperity of Central Florida,” Glass said.
The donation drew the ire of New Orleans Pelicansforward Larry Nance Jr. on social media.
“So the @OrlandoMagic who have a majority black roster, a black head coach, and a black GM decided it was a good idea to support a man that claims that slavery had personal benefits for the enslaved?” Nance posted Wednesday.
The DeVos family has owned the Magic since 1991 and has long been a factor in Republican circles. Betsy DeVos served as secretary of education under former President Donald Trump.
“Team governors make their own decisions on the political contributions they make and we respect the right of members of the NBA family to express their political views,” the NBA said in a statement.
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