By “Nunnie” Robinson, Westside Gazette Sports Editor
It was recently reported that the University of Florida had shuttered all programs related to DEI – Diversity, Equity and Inclusion- a direct slap in the face insult to its minority community. Then we learn that a Mississippi lawmaker is proposing the elimination/closing of the major HBCUS in the state: Alcorn State, Jackson State and Mississippi Valley State. These 45 supporting hypocrites have one agenda – which is to take us back to the Jim Crow era America, if not worse. I will continue my appeal to our Black athletes to take a look at their schools of choice, particularly policies related to racial justice and equality for all. The impact they could have would be immense if coaches and recruiters knew that they do have choices other than to attend schools in the old confederate states that manifest and support insidious policies detrimental to minorities. They cheer for you on the court or field of play but deride you in the plush club houses that are still 99% Lilly white. Wake up Black Sisters and Brothers.
On a lighter note, Lebron James has established a new NBA scoring record, amassing over 40,000 points during his 19 season career, one replete with promises of more to come. After all, he is a young, robust 39 year old man.
On the collegiate level, D-1, Caitlin Clark over the weekend eclipsed Pistol “Pete” Maravich’s all-time scoring record ironically by making a free throw, which resulted from a technical foul against an Ohio State player who casually bumped into her. She now has her sights set on the all-time scoring record for women regardless of division, an AIAW standard ( 4,061) held by diminutive guard Pearl Moore, who starred at Francis Marion in South Carolina from 1975-79. Clark needs 376 points to overtake Moore, highly unlikely and primarily based on how far the Hawks go in the NCAA tournament. Just one more tidbit. John Pierce David, who played for NAIA Lipscomb in Kentucky, holds the overall scoring record regardless of division with 4,230 points.
