Celebrating MLK Day

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The NBA celebrated Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in each of the 13 cities that hosted games Monday.

“He means a lot, not just to Black people, but this society as a whole because he is someone who stood up to fight for equal opportunity, peace, love and harmony,” Juwan Howard said before the Mavericks-Wizards game at the Verizon Center. “I’m just happy that the government acknowledged what he’s done for this country and gave him the respect that he truly deserves.”

Dr. King’s ties to the Capital City resonated with Howard. The “I have a dream” speech took place during the Civil Rights March on Washington 45 years ago.

“You talk about timing, this is a nice place to be,” Howard said. “Here and Memphis always stick out in your mind.”

Added Mavs coach Avery Johnson: “It’s good that we were chosen to play in D.C. on this day.”

Johnson said that Dr. King’s legacy is especially poignant for players that grew up in the South. Johnson also noted that Dr. King’s message and impact extends globally to all players.

“He created a lot of the opportunities they have right now in 2008,” Johnson said.