The NBA teams of Cleveland, Atlanta and Miami all released statements via Twitter in response to Nichols’ death. The Cavaliers expressed their deepest sympathies to the Nichols family saying, We grieve with Tyre Nichols’ loved ones and offer them our deepest sympathy as they grapple with the pain of his heinous and brutal murder.
Players and coaches from across the NBA have commented on the death of Tyre Nichols. Memphis Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins lost it emotionally while watching a televised interview with Tyre Nichols’ mother on Friday.
I cried, Jenkins admitted. On Friday, the video showing Nichols, a 29-year-old father being killed by five Memphis police officers was released and there was widespread outrage, frustration, sadness and anger throughout the NBA.
The National Basketball Players Association, along with the league and several teams issued statements of condolence to the family. As with the aftermath of countless other incidents of police brutality against Black men and women in recent years, the league’s members felt a strong outpouring of emotion.
— NBA (@NBA) January 28, 2023
“This is just crazy,” Miami’s head coach Erik Spoelstra said of Nichols at the start of Friday’s pregame news conference (According to NBA.com). These Black police officers are accused of second-degree murder, as well as aggravated assault, aggravated kidnapping, official misconduct and official oppression.
Jenkins told the Grizzlies’ broadcast partner Bally Sports in a pregame interview from Minnesota, “The senseless loss of life for Tyre Nichols has really hit us hard.” Travelling and being away from home has been difficult. Right now, I’d give anything to be able to reach out and hug my loved ones virtually through this camera. They have a lot of hardships to endure.
The Bucks issued a statement reading in part, “We are outraged by the deadly beating that Tyre Nichols received from five Memphis police officers.” The incident further highlights the need for progress in improving police-community relations.
While the officers being charged for their heinous actions is an important step toward justice, this incident further highlights the need for progress. About two hours after the video of Nichols’ death was released, the NBA issued a statement, even as protests were taking place in numerous cities across the country.
A statement from the NBPA. #JusticeForTyre
🔗: https://t.co/FHZfUh2u9A pic.twitter.com/lilsGNxHqP
— NBPA (@TheNBPA) January 28, 2023
Nichols was stopped by police on his way home from photographing the sky on January 7. He was only a short distance from the house he shared with his mom and stepdad. The NBPA expressed its support for the rightful arrest of all officers involved.
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The union has pledged to keep an eye on the investigation and legal proceedings to ensure that justice is served for Tyre and his family. Jenkins added that he is optimistic that Memphis residents will come together in support. The value of my words can only go so far,” Jenkins admitted. I want to keep encouraging people to put their arms around each other, put their arms around the Nichols family put their arms around the Wells family to remember a beautiful life in Tyre Nichols.
To the Nichols family, my teammates and I are and have been paying attention. We are with you.
To Memphis, we are hurting, too.
Peaceful protest, supporting the family, pushing for accountability are what’s needed in this moment. 🤎
— JJJ (@jarenjacksonjr) January 27, 2023
Many NBA players and coaches including those from the Memphis Grizzlies have spoken out about the death of Tyre Nichols. We promise to keep you up to date as soon as any additional information about Tyre Nichols’s death becomes available. Follow our official Twitter page to stay up-to-date on all the latest news.