NBA Unites in Call for Minute of Silence to Honor Charlie Kirk After Assassination
Milwaukee, Wisconsin – September 13, 2025 – In a powerful and unprecedented move, Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers has called on the entire NBA community—from players and coaches to franchises and fans across the nation—to observe a minute of silence before every game to honor Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, who was tragically assassinated during a speaking event at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025. Rivers’ heartfelt plea has sparked a wave of unity, igniting a patriotic movement that resonates deeply within the basketball world and beyond, as the nation grapples with the shock of Kirk’s death.
The assassination of Charlie Kirk, a polarizing yet influential conservative activist and close ally of President Donald Trump, has sent shockwaves through the United States, prompting widespread discussions about political violence, free speech, and the role of public figures in polarized times. Kirk, 31, was fatally shot in the neck from a rooftop during an event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, in what authorities have described as a targeted “political assassination.” The suspect, 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, was arrested on September 12, 2025, following a multi-agency manhunt, with bullet casings inscribed with anti-fascist messages providing insight into the motive behind the attack.
Doc Rivers, a respected figure in the NBA known for his leadership both on and off the court, delivered an emotional statement during a press conference in Milwaukee, urging the league to come together in a show of solidarity. “This isn’t about politics; it’s about humanity,” Rivers said, his voice heavy with emotion. “Charlie Kirk was a voice for many, a patriot who spoke his truth. His assassination is a wound to our nation, and as a league, we must stand together to honor his life and send a message that violence has no place in our society. I’m calling on every NBA franchise to hold a minute of silence before games to reflect on unity, compassion, and the values we hold dear as Americans.”
A League-Wide Response
Rivers’ call has resonated powerfully across the NBA, with several teams and players quickly expressing support for the initiative. The NBA, which has already shown its commitment to addressing societal issues through moments of reflection, confirmed that it would encourage all 30 franchises to observe a minute of silence during upcoming games. This follows the league’s precedent of honoring Kirk during the Green Bay Packers–Washington Commanders “Thursday Night Football” game, where a moment of silent reflection was held at Lambeau Field.
The NBA’s decision has been met with widespread approval from players, coaches, and fans, many of whom see it as a unifying gesture in a time of national grief. New York Giants rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart, Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker, and former quarterback Tim Tebow were among the prominent sports figures who expressed support for honoring Kirk, reflecting the broader impact of his death across the sports world.
“Charlie Kirk’s voice reached millions, and his loss is felt deeply,” said LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers superstar, in a statement on X. “The NBA is a family, and when one of us hurts, we all hurt. A minute of silence is a small but meaningful way to show we stand for unity and against violence.” Similar sentiments were echoed by players like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry, who emphasized the importance of coming together to condemn political violence.
A Patriotic Movement
Rivers’ call has transcended basketball, igniting what many are describing as a patriotic movement across America. Fans have taken to social media to express their support, with hashtags like #HonorCharlieKirk and #NBASolidarity trending on X. Posts on the platform reflect a groundswell of emotion, with users praising the NBA for taking a stand against violence and honoring a figure who, despite his polarizing views, was seen by many as a champion of free speech and conservative values.
The movement has also drawn attention from political leaders, with President Trump, a close ally of Kirk, commending the NBA’s initiative. In a statement from the Oval Office, Trump called Kirk “a patriot who devoted his life to open debate and the country he loved so much,” adding that the league’s gesture “shows the best of America.” Trump’s remarks, coupled with Rivers’ call, have amplified the moment, turning it into a broader call for unity and reflection.
However, the initiative has not been without controversy. Some voices on X have criticized the NBA’s decision, arguing that honoring Kirk, a figure associated with divisive political rhetoric, risks alienating fans. Others have pointed to the league’s history of addressing social issues, such as racial justice, and questioned whether the tribute aligns with its broader values. Despite these debates, the NBA has maintained that the minute of silence is a gesture of unity, not an endorsement of Kirk’s views.
The Broader Context
Kirk’s assassination is the latest in a string of high-profile attacks on political figures in the United States, including the assassination of Minnesota state representative Melissa Hortman in June 2025 and two attempted assassinations on Trump during his 2024 campaign. These incidents have heightened concerns about an “era of assassination culture,” with targeted killings tied to ideology becoming increasingly prevalent.
The NBA’s response reflects its growing role as a platform for addressing societal challenges. From kneeling during the national anthem to campaigns supporting racial equality, the league has consistently used its influence to foster dialogue. By honoring Kirk, the NBA is signaling its commitment to condemning violence and promoting unity, even in the face of political division.
Looking Ahead
As the NBA prepares to implement the minute of silence across its games, the focus will be on how teams and fans respond. The gesture is expected to be a powerful moment, with arenas falling silent to honor Kirk’s memory and reflect on the need for civility in public discourse
