Clippers’ Chris Paul talks 2017 All-Star game relocation
The NBA All-Star game will not be in Charlotte anymore, and Clippers guard Chris Paul talked about his home-area losing the three-day event.
Los Angeles Clippers guard Chris Paul said it was tough to hear that the NBA announced plans to relocate the 2017 All-Star game from Charlotte.
CP on ASG leaving NC: "It's tough. That's home for me, North Carolina...but sometimes things have to be done, and it is what it is"
— Rowan Kavner (@RowanKavner) July 22, 2016
The point guard said he has lots of ties to his home area, but the decision is what it is. Paul said sometimes things have to be done.
More CP: "The biggest thing that I'm hoping is that things (change) so the game can be there. Those fans in North Carolina deserve it."
— Rowan Kavner (@RowanKavner) July 22, 2016
Paul hopes things will change so Charlotte can actually get an All-Star game. He said he was excited to have an opportunity for a homecoming, but somethings are bigger than the game.
As for what prompted the move, a North Carolina state law eliminated anti-discriminations protections for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people. The law which was passed in March prevents transgender people from using bathrooms in public buildings that do not correspond with their birth gender.
The league said that both it and the Hornets had been talking to state officials about changing the law.
The NBA’s statement on the matter:
“Our week-long schedule of All-Star events and activities is intended to be a global celebration of basketball, our league, and the values for which we stand, and to bring together all members of the NBA community — current and former players, league and team officials, business partners, and fans. While we recognize that the NBA cannot choose the law in every city, state, and country in which we do business, we do not believe we can successfully host our All-Star festivities in Charlotte in the climate created by HB2.”
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The league added that they are mindful of the decisions for fans in North Carolina. They plan to re-start plans for the three-day event in 2019, if there is a resolution to the matter. Otherwise, the new location will be announced in the coming weeks.
Gov. Pat McCrory issued a statement after the announcement. According to the New York Times, he said “the sports and entertainment elite,” among others, had “misrepresented our laws and maligned the people of North Carolina simply because most people believe boys and girls should be able to use school bathrooms, locker rooms and showers without the opposite sex present.”
As for Paul, it is unfortunate that his home area will not see an All-Star game this season. There are still plans that the game returns in two seasons.
Maybe, Paul should take a more active stance against the law. His celebrity and connections in the North Carolina area might help the law get changed.