LeBron James is the latest professional athlete to show support for Nike following an advertising campaign that sparked controversy after linking-up with Colin Kaepernick.
James was honored at a fashion show Tuesday that partnered with Nike and received an award for his style and philanthropy. After being recognized, James said (via the Hollywood Reporter), "I stand with Nike, all day, every day," which is a reference to the company's 30th anniversary “Just Do It” ad campaign focused around Kaepernick that was unveiled Monday.
The Lakers star added: “I stand with anyone who believes in change."
James also expressed his support on Instagram sharing the image of Kaepernick's ad campaign that read, "Believe in something. Even if it means sacrificing everything."
Kaepernick, 30, has not played in the NFL since opting out of his contract with the 49ers in 2017, following a season in which he was both praised and criticized for kneeling during the national anthem in protest of police brutality and racial injustice.
Nike's decision has prompted support from some and criticism from others, including a response from Donald Trump. The president said Tuesday, "It’s a terrible message and a message that shouldn’t be sent."
The NFL released a statement Tuesday saying the issues raised by Kaepernick "deserve our attention and action".
Last November Kaepernick filed a grievance against the NFL in which he alleged that the league and franchise owners colluded to keep him from signing with another team. An NFL request to dismiss the case was denied last month, meaning there is sufficient evidence for it to go to an arbitrator.
