The Golden State Warriors have decided to make time during their visit to the nation’s capital later this month to hang out with local children instead of going to the White House to celebrate their championship.
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr, who has been outspoken against the president, told ESPN that the players made the decision of how they wanted to celebrate their championship when they come to Washington.
“It’s their championship,” Kerr said, according to ESPN. “They got disinvited to the White House, so it’s up to them what they wanted to do. So they made their plans. I want the players to have a good day and to do something positive and to enjoy what they’re doing.”
Golden State had considered a couple other options of how to celebrate, according to ESPN. Superstar Kevin Durant was born in the D.C. area and grew up in Prince George’s County, Maryland; so visiting his hometown was one avenue. House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi also offered to host a celebration for the team on Capitol Hill, seeing as she represents a congressional district that includes parts of San Francisco. In the end, the team chose not to engage in the potential politicalization of celebrating a championship.
Back in September, multiple Warriors players expressed disinterest in going to the White House, a longstanding tradition for the winners of any major sporting event, professional or collegiate.
Stephen Curry doesn’t hold back on whether he’ll vote to visit White House. pic.twitter.com/n2PBAtYQdA
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) September 22, 2017
In response to their comments, President Trump uninvited them on Twitter.
Going to the White House is considered a great honor for a championship team.Stephen Curry is hesitating,therefore invitation is withdrawn!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 23, 2017
Prior to the president’s tweet, the team was prepared to vote on whether or not they should attend the celebration at the White House.
The Houston Astros have announced the will visit the White House and it’ll take place on March 12. Conversely, the some Philadelphia Eagles players have said they will not visit, but the team has not stated whether or not they speak for themselves or on behalf of the whole team.