Charles Barkley, known by some as simply Sir Charles, has come out strongly against the new anti-LGBT law in Indiana, saying events should flee the state. The former NBA star, now colorful TV basketball commentator, didn't pull any punches in attacking Indiana Gov. Mike Pence and the state legislature for legalizing discrimination.
"Discrimination in any form is unacceptable to me," Barkley said. "As long as anti-gay legislation exists in any state, I strongly believe big events such as the Final Four and Super Bowl should not be held in those states' cities."
As we and the LGBT Sports Coalition have pointed out, the NCAA and NFL have some serious decisions to make. Early next year, Indianapolis is set to host the NFL Scouting Combine and the Women's Final Four. Both organizations have the resources to break whatever contracts they have signed. If they keep these high-profile events in the state, they risk alienating a big fanbase of LGBT people and their friends and family.
When we were in Austin for SXSW, Barkley couldn't have been more friendly and welcoming to Wade Davis and me. He even bought us tequila shots (well, he bought Wade wine). Thanks Charles for speaking the truth! We know Gov. Pence used analytics to decide to sign this bill!
Barkley previously said NBA players would be cool with a gay teammate. The man speaks the truth.
