Gregg Popovich criticizes Donald Trump after George Floyd’s death

Star coach Gregg Popovich from five-time NBA champion San Antonio Spurs has sharply criticized US President Donald Trump for dealing with police violence against blacks.

“We all see police violence and racism, and we’ve all seen it before, but nothing changes. Without leadership and without understanding the problem, nothing will ever change,” Popovich told the news magazine The nation.

“White Americans have ignored this problem forever because it is our privilege to avoid it,” said the US national basketball team coach.

Trump has to say: “Black lives matter”

“If Trump had a brain, even if it was 99 percent cynical, he would say something to reunite the people. But he doesn’t care about bringing people together. It’s only about himself, about what is personal to him brings an advantage. It’s never about the common good, “said the 71-year-old.” But it’s more than just Trump, the system has to change. “

Since the death of African American George Floyd due to police violence in the USA, there have been repeated violent protests. “It is so obvious what has to happen. We need a president who steps in front of his people and says ‘Black lives matter’. Trump is not only split, he is a destroyer,” said Popovich: “I am horrified that we have a leader who can’t say that black lives matter. “

Floyd had been killed in a police operation in Minneapolis last Monday. A white policeman had pressed his knee back for several minutes. “I can’t breathe,” said Floyd, who died from the effects of the fixation.

Many athletes spoke out against police violence and racism, including NBA icon Michael Jordan, Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton or star quarterback Patrick Mahomes from Super Bowl winner Kansas City Chiefs.

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