Coach Steve Kerr: Trump Shooting Demoralizes Team USA

The political scene in the U.S. took a dark turn when Donald Trump was shot at a rally in Pennsylvania.

Steve Kerr’s Reaction:

Coach Steve Kerr expressed deep sadness about the incident, calling it “a demoralizing day for our country.” He emphasized how proud they are to represent the USA at the Olympics and how this event makes them want to show their best selves even more.

“We’ve talked to the players about how important it is to show the best version of us as human beings to represent our country in a respectful, dignified manner. It makes you want to do that even more so because this is really shameful for us to sit here and think about what happened and what’s going on in our country,” he added.

Team USA coach Steve Kerr says it's a "terrible" and "demoralizing day for our country" in wake of Trump shooting:

— Brian Windhorst (@WindhorstESPN)

Kerr’s Personal Connection:

Kerr has always been vocal against gun violence, especially since his father was assassinated by Islamic Jihad in 1984 while serving as president of American University of Beirut. Reflecting on recent events, he said it’s hard to process everything and scary considering existing issues in America.

Despite everything, Kerr felt grateful things weren’t worse. “Thank God Trump wasn’t hit, but it’s just so demoralizing in every which way,” he assured.

Trump’s Statement:

Trump posted that he had been “shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear” during his rally. The FBI later identified 20-year-old Thomas Mathew Crooks as the suspect.

Steph Curry Speaks Out:

Steph Curry also addressed reporters, calling it “a very sad time.” He mentioned that there’s much work needed for America to succeed.

“It’s obviously a very sad time in general,” said Curry. “All the conversations around the election and politics, then something like this happens which brings up emotions about things we need to fix.”

Fans feel overwhelmed by these events.

“Obviously, gun control first and foremost,” Curry continued. “But you also want positivity and hope because that’s when our country shines most.”

Upcoming Events:

Meanwhile, U.S. Ambassador Martin Strong confirmed Team USA will stay in the Middle East before facing Australia and Serbia as they prep for Paris.