The Boston Celtics and Dallas Mavericks are into the NBA Finals. It’s something the LGBTQ community can embrace, as both teams embrace Pride Month.
Both the Celtics and Mavericks have a history of supporting the LGBTQ community that goes back at least a decade, when Jason Collins came out publicly after wearing No. 98 for the Celtics. Doc Rivers, Collins coach with the Celtics and the then-Celtics head coach, expressed his support openly.
“I’m really proud of Jason,” Rivers said at the time, according to SI. “He still can play. He’ll be active in our league, I hope, and we can get by this — get past this. I think it would be terrific for the league. More than anything, it would just be terrific for mankind, my gosh.”
Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban, who was the face of the franchise in 2014, spoke out publicly at the time about same-sex marriage, and he praised how the acceptance of gay people had dramatically improved in a short period of time. He also made it clear he supported Collins’ coming out and other gay athletes.
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“I think it’s no big deal and that’s exactly the way it should be,” Cuban said at the time. “He’s been playing in the league forever. The guy’s known. As long as they get their a– kicked in the playoffs, that’s all I care about.”
Fast-forward to today, and both clubs embrace the LGBTQ community with Pride Nights.
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They are both are also celebrating Pride Month, which is sure to make heads at OutKick explode.
“This month and always, we stand with the LGBTQ+ community, embracing equality and respect for all,” the Celtics wrote on Instagram. “Together, let’s continue to champion ongoing advocacy efforts, open conversations, and create safe and inclusive spaces.”
“This month and every month, we stand with the LGBTQ+ community,” the Mavericks wrote.
Of course, these social-media posts simply letting LGBTQ people know they are welcome in sports — something that has been a huge problem over the years — are getting the trolls to respond.
And yet, both NBA Finals teams are celebrating Pride.
