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NBA, NBPA say sparking social change will be goal of restart

NEW YORK (AP) - The NBA and the National Basketball Players Association said Wednesday that dealing with racial matters will be a shared goal during the resumed season.

The league and union announced they will 'œtake collective action to combat systemic racism and promote social justice'ť when the season restarts at the Disney complex near Orlando, Florida next month.

Specific plans have not been finalized.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver and NBPA executive director Michele Roberts led a meeting that included league officials and players Tuesday to go over plans, including how best to ensure greater inclusion of Black-owned and operated businesses in league matters and forming an NBA foundation 'œto expand educational and economic development opportunities'ť in the Black community.

'œThe issues of systemic racism and police brutality in our country need to end,'ť union president Chris Paul of the Oklahoma City Thunder said.

He added, 'œthere is much work ahead both in Orlando and long-term to continue the momentum and bring about real, long-lasting change to our society.'ť

Silver said talks will continue.

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FILE - In this Friday, Feb. 7, 2020, file photo, Oklahoma City Thunder guard Chris Paul (3) is pictured during an NBA basketball game against the Detroit Pistons, in Oklahoma City. The coronavirus pandemic brought sports to a halt, but stay-at-home orders are starting to be eased and a handful of NBA teams are opening practice facilities. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki, File) The Associated Press
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