Penguins still plan to visit White House; support rights of others to protest

The Pittsburgh Penguins still intend to visit the White House as Stanley Cup champions, despite the animosity against President Donald Trump swirling in the sports world.

Tensions have risen in the past couple days after Trump revoked the Golden State Warriors' invitation to visit the White House and called out NFL owners and players regarding protests during the national anthem.

Related - Report: NFL players considering further protests following Trump's criticism

In June, the Penguins went on record saying they would visit the White House if they were invited. They reaffirmed that sentiment Sunday in a press release, while making sure to note they support the rights of others to "express themselves":

The Pittsburgh Penguins respect the institution of the Office of the President, and the long tradition of championship teams visiting the White House. We attended White House ceremonies after previous championships - touring the historic building and visiting briefly with Presidents George H.W. Bush and Barack Obama - and have accepted an invitation to attend again this year.

Any agreement or disagreement with a president's politics, policies or agenda can be expressed in other ways. However, we very much respect the rights of other individuals and groups to express themselves as they see fit.

Following the Penguins' announcement, Trump confirmed the club's acceptance calling them a "great team."

The Penguins' visit to the White House would mark their third in the last nine years after visits following Stanley Cup wins in 2009 and 2016.