The Utah Jazz have been one of the most progressive teams regarding inclusivity, especially under its new owner�Ryan Smith.�From the coaching staff to the front office, the organization has taken action to combat inequality in the community and the organization.
Despite this, former Utah Jazz player, Elijah Milsap, came out on Twitter accusing current Jazz Vice President Dennis Lindsey of using racist language during his exit interview. Elijah Milsap is the brother of Paul Milsap of the Denver Nuggets. He last played for the Phoenix Suns in 2017 after a two-year stint with the Jazz.
Salt Lake City has become notorious among players for racist language coming from fans. As recently as last year, Russell Westbrook and a fan in Utah had an exchange. Westbrook said the fan spat “disrespectful” and “racist” comments towards him.
Tony Jones of The Athletic reported that Dennis Lindsey “empathetically [denies] making that statement.” Lindsey has garnered a credible reputation as a composed speaker. He spoke out against the fan who taunted Russell Westbrook in 2019. Subsequently, the Jazz permanently banned the fan from the arena.
While Lindsey hasn’t shown this behavior prior, the league should still take accusations seriously.
