In wake of North Carolina legislature's decision to pass a sweeping law that reverses an ordinance extending rights to gay and transgender people, the NBA has decided to relocate the 2017 All-Star Game. House Bill 2 (or HB2) also limits how people pursue claims of discrimination because of race, religion, color, national origin or handicap in state courts.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver first mentioned the possibility of moving the game back in April, adding that the law could eventually lead to the Hornets leaving Charlotte permanently. Thus far, team owner Michael Jordan has stood by the NBA's decision, saying that the organization is opposed to discrimination of any form.
Nike, one the league's strongest partners and its official outfitter beginning next season, is also weighing in on the matter. The company's official statement reads:
"Nike supports the NBA’s decision to stand up for equal rights for the LGBT community by moving the location of the All Star Game. We stand against discrimination of any kind and believe this decision sends a strong message of inclusion and respect for diversity."
In recent years, Nike has been a strong advocate of equal rights for the LGBT community, even releasing #BETRUE Pride products and donating proceeds to organizations who empower LGBT communities.
As of this writing, a new location for All-Star '17 hasn't been selected. Chicago, New Orleans, New York and Orlando have been mentioned as possible replacement cities.
