New National Anthem controversy as Bluefield College men’s basketball team suspended by school president for kneeling

The men’s basketball team at Bluefield College in Southwest Virginia has been placed on a one-game suspension by the school’s president for kneeling during the National Anthem at games earlier this week.

A statement issued by President David Olive said he met with players who voiced their First Amendment protection for the display that they said was done to protest racial injustice.

Bluefield College President Continues Conversation on Kneeling at Athletic EventPosted by Bluefield College on Thursday, February 11, 2021

Olive said he supported their efforts but because the act is prohibited under school regulations and the fact that the institution is private, the team is held to a standard because they represent the school and not themselves.

Coach Richard Morgan kept the team in the locker room during the anthem at some games this season to avoid controversy but it seems the last straw for Olive was the team defying his directive and kneeling during Tuesday’s home game against Tennessee Wesleyan.

The suspension resulted in a forfeit loss for the Rams who are scheduled to host Milligan University on Monday.

Bluefield College President Responds to Kneeling at Athletic EventPosted by Bluefield College on Tuesday, February 9, 2021

(IMAGE: Courtesy of Bluefield College Athletics / BCRams.com)