National anthem protest could spread to NBA as pre-season starts

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- The new issue of TIME magazine about to hit newsstands features a familiar face to football fans, Niners star Colin Kaepernick.

The quarterback's national anthem protest has sparked conversation in football circles and that's now spreading to other professional sports leagues.

RELATED: Colin Kaepernick receives death threats over anthem protest

The NBA pre-season starts in nine days and the Golden State Warriors' general manager and head coach say they are talking about these social issues with players.

TIME's Oct. 3 issue is titled "The Perilous Fight." It shows Colin Kaepernick in his 49ers uniform taking a knee and says "national anthem protests led by Colin Kaepernick are fueling a debate about privilege, pride and patriotism."

It's a debate that could soon cross leagues from the NFL to the NBA.

Warriors general manager Bob Myers says the team is having discussions about who they can bring in to educate players on the issues.

RELATED: Poll: Niners QB Kaepernick most disliked player in league

"It's very good that there's been a heightened awareness," Myers said. "Our players are in a unique position to have a voice. It's up to them how they want to use it."

On Wednesday, Warriors Head Coach Steve Kerr told reporters he expects the team will talk about it before their first game.

"I would think that something similar will happen in the NBA," Kerr said.

Kaepernick initially refused to stand during the national anthem in August to protest racial injustice.

"What's going on is not right. I think shedding light on the situation that is heinous," said 49ers head coach Chip Kelly.

RELATED: Richard Sherman protests shootings by not taking questions at news conference

"It doesn't matter what side you're on with the Kaepernick stuff, you better be disgusted about the things that are happening," Kerr said.

RELATED: Kaepernick to appear on TIME cover as police protests heat up

"The conversations we're having with our players, that's a positive thing," Myers said.

Myers says it's that dialogue that builds relationships.

Click here for full coverage on Colin Kaepernick, and click here for more stories and videos on the 49ers.