In a memorable moment at the 2024 Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago, Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr delivered a powerful speech that ended with a pointed message to former President Donald Trump.
Kerr, who also recently led the U.S. men’s basketball team to Olympic gold, took the stage to express his support for the Harris-Walz ticket and to call for a return to dignified leadership.
Kerr’s speech was a blend of personal anecdotes and political commentary. He spoke about the qualities he believes are essential in a leader, such as honesty, dignity, and integrity.
“As a coach and former player, as a husband, a son, a father, even a grandfather, and as an American, I believe in a certain kind of leadership. I believe leaders must display dignity. I believe that leaders must tell the truth,” Kerr said.
The highlight of his speech came at the end when Kerr referenced Stephen Curry’s famous “night, night” celebration. This gesture, which Curry popularized after victories, involves clasping hands together and mimicking a sleeping pose. Kerr used this gesture to deliver a final jab at Trump:
“After the results are tallied on Election Night, in the words of the great Steph Curry, we can tell Donald Trump, ‘Night, night'”.
The crowd erupted in applause, clearly resonating with Kerr’s message. His use of Curry’s celebration was not just a playful nod to his team’s success but also a symbolic call for a new chapter in American politics. Kerr’s speech underscored the importance of leadership that embodies the values he holds dear, and his endorsement of Kamala Harris and Tim Walz was a call to action for voters to support candidates who reflect those values.
Kerr’s willingness to speak out on political issues, despite potential backlash, highlights his commitment to using his platform for what he believes is right.
“I know very well that speaking out about politics these days comes with risks. I can see the ‘shut up and whistle’ tweets being fired off as we speak. But I also knew as soon as I was asked that it was too important as an American citizen not to speak up in an election of this magnitude,” Kerr explained.
As the nation heads towards the November elections, Kerr’s speech at the DNC will likely be remembered as a defining moment, blending sports, politics, and a call for integrity in leadership.
