MIAMI (AFP) -- The National Basketball Players Association on Thursday, Aug. 3, criticized a recent $50,000 donation made by the Orlando Magic to a political group backing Republican candidate Ron DeSantis. *Florida Governor and 2024 Republican Presidential hopeful Ron DeSantis speaks at the Republican Party of Iowa's 2023 Lincoln Dinner at the Iowa Events Center in Des Moines, Iowa, on July 28. (AFP)*


The NBPA said the Magic's donation to a group backing Florida governor De Santis's presidential bid was "alarming" and did not represent player support. "A political contribution from the Orlando Magic is alarming given recent comments of its beneficiary," the NBPA said in its statement. "NBA Governors, players and personnel have the right to express their personal political views, including through donations and statements. "However, if contributions are made on behalf of an entire team, using money earned through the labor of its employees, it is incumbent upon the team governors to consider the diverse values and perspectives of staff and players. "The Magic's donation does not represent player support for the recipient." DeSantis has drawn criticism in recent weeks over his support for new guidelines introduced in Florida which dictate how African American history should be taught in schools. One passage of the new guidelines, approved on July 19, suggests that some enslaved people gained "benefits" from slavery because they were able to learn skills. The Magic have defended the donation, saying it was made on May 19 -- before DeSantis formally launched his presidential campaign. News of the donation drew criticism from New Orleans Pelicans forward Larry Nance Jr. "So the Orlando Magic who have a majority black roster, a black head coach, and a black GM decided it was a good idea to support a man that claims that slavery had personal benefits for the enslaved?'" Nance posted on Twitter.