Ron Harper Says 'Phil Jackson Is No Racist'
Ron Harper 'Phil Jackson Is No Racist' 'This Story Is Dumb & Stupid'
Ron Harper is coming out strong in defense of his ex-Chicago Bulls coach Phil Jackson -- saying straight-up, "He's no racist" ... despite comments made by LeBron James.
Phil's been under fire this week -- ever since LeBron slammed Jackson for describing his close business associates as a "posse."
LeBron says he was offended by the term -- claiming it was used in a derogatory manner toward a group of African-Americans.
We reached out to Harper -- who played under Jackson with the Bulls and Lakers from 1994 to 2001 -- and he sent us a statement on the situation. Here it is in its entirety:
"Don't want no part of this story it's dumb and stupid. Phil is no racist and back when Phil coached, we all call them the p word."
"I respect LBJ and that's how he feel I'm sorry pj is great. The world needs to stop taking words out of context. Everything about life is not a white and black thing. We're one race and that's a human race and if we let dumb people's put us into a box and then no one would survive."
"This is not an excuse for what Phil said or down playing the story but to me it's a no story."
He continued, "LBJ, we'll respect you and the things you do on the court and no one can take those away from you and all the great work off the court in Ohio and with your foundation. The people's life that you've change the kids you touch helping your friends and family reach new heights in life. Just keep It positive and never let the world see you frown. The work you do is awesome.... respect :fist: & honor."
