NBA reacts to Derek Chauvin murder conviction

The NBA, which had warned teams of possibly postponing games based on the court’s decision, applauded Derek Chauvin’s guilty verdict as “justice served.” It also pledged to continue pushing reform in policing and criminal justice.

“George Floyd’s murder was a flash point for how we look at race and justice in our country, and we are pleased that justice appears to have been served,” the league’s statement read. “But we also recognize that there is much work to be done.”

LeBron James’ reaction was brief but forceful. He tweeted in capital letters, “ACCOUNTABILITY.”

Pelicans coach Stan Van Gundy appreciated the accountability but couldn’t rejoice given the circumstances.

“Justice was done, but it’s hard to celebrate,” Van Gundy said. “It’s hard to celebrate because it doesn’t bring back George Floyd. We had somebody needlessly killed right in front of us. It was right in front of all of us because we could see it on video. No verdict is going to change that.”

Nets coach Steve Nash echoed Van Gundy’s sentiment, calling the verdict “bittersweet.”

“Obviously, George Floyd lost his life as many others have unjustly and we can’t forget that, that people are losing their lives,” Nash said. “On the other hand, it is a small gesture of justice and possibly hope for the future in that perhaps all the social justice movements, the NBA, the WNBA with the community at large are really making an impact.

“Whether it’s small and creating a tipping point or whether it’s large it gives hope that the voices of many are making change and we have a better future for our kids. In one respect, it’s relieving because you don’t have a lot of confidence historically that the verdict will come down and that justice will be served. So I just hope that this is the type of statement by our justice system that gives hope and precedence for these type of verdicts to be the norm.”

The Knicks issued a broad statement about “fostering a society free of racism, bigotry and hate.” Coach Tom Thibodeau, however, specifically referenced the Chauvin verdict.

“Obviously, we’re pleased. Justice was served,” Thibodeau said. “Your heart goes out to the Floyd family because there’s nothing that you can do to bring him back. In society, there’s no place for racism or bigotry and we have to do better. As a country, we have to do better.”