The NBA has received plaudits for its so-called progressivism, but look a bit closer at the pro sports league and you’ll find precious little evidence.
It was a small imposition of authority by the NBA in the grand scheme of things, but a revealing one.
Over the summer, J.R. Smith, the oft-shirtless Cleveland Cavaliers shooting guard, added a brand new tattoo to some of the few square inches of canvas available on his person. This time he went with a literal brand, inking the logo of the lifestyle and clothing company Supreme across the back of his right calf. The NBA refused to let this combination of self-expression and unpaid sponsorship go unpunished. Should Smith fail to cover up the logo while on the court, he’ll be subject to ongoing fines.
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