Just an aside....what the hell is virtue signaling?
I've always followed all the major sports, including the NBA. No more. James Harden showed up to their Disney Bubble dealio the other day wearing what they called a "Thin Blue Line" mask, supposedly referencing some support of law enforcement. At least that's how it was interpreted by some. He was ripped to shreds by his colleagues. Drew Brees (Yes, NFL) said he will not kneel for the anthem and gave his reasons. We all know how quickly he was beaten into submission over that one.
The Liberal way has become, you agree with me or:
1. We will shout you down. If we can't shout or shame you down, we will:
2. "Cancel you". Ruin you, your business, your reputation etc. If that doesn't work, we will:
3. Beat the ever lovin' shit out of you or threaten you and/or your family and anyone associated with you.
And you're right. People are generally scared to stand up for themselves for fear of the above. And it's permeated throughout sports. I agree wholeheartedly that sports should be that respite, that break from the daily grind. That temporary haven from so many harsh realities in life. Not anymore. if we want to be a part of it, we have to accept having a false narrative shoved down our throats. And we have to act like we love it, lest we be canceled.