Hungry Jack's NBL
Statement: NBL Supports Isaac Humphries
Written By
NBL
The Hungry Jack’s National Basketball League fully supports Melbourne United player, Isaac Humphries, and stands with him following his announcement today.
“Isaac has always been a role model and leader. He is someone we’ve always held in the highest regard,” NBL Commissioner, Jeremy Loeliger said.
“Isaac has conducted himself admirably today and over the course of his career, in dealing with what has clearly been a significant cause of distress and consternation for him personally.”
In a statement Humphries said:
“I have hidden something about myself my whole life, from everyone I love, and even myself sometimes. It is a truth about myself that I have wanted to deny for a long time, but now I feel comfortable in telling you all. That truth, is that I am gay.
“I have been through extremely dark times during this journey, but I have been through so much growth and I am now happy with who I am.
“I figured out a lot about myself during this most recent off-season, and I have thought about this a lot. I knew if I were to join a team and start a season, I knew I would have to reveal who I am and not hide anymore.
“I have finally come to a point where I know I can reveal myself as a gay man and still play professional sport.
“I believe it is definitely time to make a change and set an example to the next generation that they can be anything they want while still being true to themselves.
“I want to demonstrate that you can be a professional athlete, you can be anything you want, and still be gay.”
Loeliger says Humphries’ announcement shows the NBL continues to be a place where players, coaches and staff feel safe and supported.
“As a League we celebrate people from all walks of life and embrace and foster diversity and inclusion,” Loeliger added.
“Basketball is a game that brings people together, and it is no more evident than today.”
------------
The National Basketball League is committed to continually improving its inclusivity of people with diverse sexualities and genders through its partnership with Pride in Sport.
If this story raises any concerns for you, support is available:
ACON: 1800 063 060
Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636
QLife:1800 184 527
Tags
