Conley speaks out against police-community violence

You'd think someone who just inked the most lucrative deal in the history of the NBA would be celebrating, but Mike Conley just can't bring himself to do that.

The Memphis Grizzlies point guard has been troubled by a series of recent events - from the police killings of Alton Sterling and Philando Castile, to the five cops who were gunned down at a Black Lives Matter protest, and the subsequent demonstrations.

"This is supposed to be the most exciting time for me," Conley said in his re-introductory press conference Thursday. "You know, getting a new contract, getting to come back home to Memphis. But I haven't celebrated. I haven't celebrated, not one day, in light of all the events that are going on in this world and in America.

"I mean, for me, it's hard to wake up knowing that this injustice is still going on. The violence against police officers and the violence against innocent citizens has to stop. We have to make a change. However hard that is, however uncomfortable it is.

"And it's not comfortable for me to sit up here and talk to you about it, to be honest. I'm a quiet guy. You all know that. I'm very reserved. But at the same time, as much as I want to lead by example, I know when it's time to speak up, and right now is that time."

The 28-year-old joins a growing list of basketball stars who've called for reform. New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony implored fellow athletes to take a stand in support of black rights and against violence. He then took the stage at the ESPYs with Chris Paul, Dwyane Wade, and LeBron James, using the moment as a "call to action for all professional athletes" to inspire change.