As a lot of you have read, Phil Jackson and the Lakers have recently been fined $50,000 each for their comments regarding the Kobe Bryant suspensions. Although I do agree that Kobe deserved the suspensions, how can the NBA fine people for what they say? Isn't the right to freedom of speech protected by the U.S. Constitution? And don't say the NBA isn't the U.S. government, because most of the people in NBA are U.S. citizens entitled to their rights regardless of what organization they work for.
2007-03-15 22:22:45 · 7 answers · asked by Wowsza 2 in Politics & Government ➔ Law & Ethics
It is in their agreement with the Players Association, though they often have differences of opinion!
Technically, it is a private agency. Now if you worked for the government and they tried the same they would lose in court as it is a violation of free speech when it comes to the government!
2007-03-15 22:31:57 · answer #1 · answered by cantcu 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
How about they're under contract as employees of the NBA and as company representatives are responsible for their words and actions. Part of the reason they're paid so much is that they are full time company reps and everything they say can be considered the same as if the commisioner of the NBA said it. There are no "the thoughts and ;opinions rendered by the players are entirely their own and do not necessarily reflect that of other players or the NBA." disclaimers when a player speaks.
2007-03-16 05:35:58 · answer #2 · answered by wdy_67 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
well you have absolutely right but the wrong is your way of thinking
let's say i own a business. and you work for me. and i give you a fine of 500000000000$ because you have black hair. what are you going to do??
A) You pay me the fine
B) Tell me to f** myself and you leave my business
Both are ok for the government laws
It's your choice
So if Lakers want to play to that thing called NBA they have given a written permission to that NBA that grants some power. If Lakers and Phil Jackson don't pay it's no problem for the governement, no problem for your constitution. But the NBA will not accept them to play at "NBA Championship"
Maybe there is some legal mumbo-jumbo involved but i think this is a good answer...
2007-03-16 05:35:38 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
The NBA is a private organization, and there are rules governing the conduct of its players.
2007-03-16 06:28:51 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Please understand, The Constitution is about your interaction with the government. The First Amendment says.... "Congress shall make no law...."
The NBA is not Congress.
2007-03-16 08:32:30 · answer #5 · answered by Yak Rider 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
these people have obviously violated something in their contracts...there's probably a clause that states they can't comment on league fines/suspensions...etc...read before you sign...then, obey, or be fined!
2007-03-16 05:36:01 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I agree with you but they know the rules.
2007-03-16 05:30:53 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋