Omik Vasquez, Jr.

Loss of life (young life at that) brought about by avoidable circumstances that the victims were exposed to by authority figures that were supposed to care and nurture them - is a tragedy that requires accountability. No it won’t bring back Divine and Rene, but we cannot allow people in power to be protected when their authority and status were wielded to put young men in precarious situations that took their lives. There’s anecdotes on record of precedent, there’s a grieving mother asking for the most basic details amid official statements saying they are ‘working closely’ with the families. Investigate this to the fullest. Basketball is by no means more important than protecting our young people, most especially those who come from backgrounds that force them and their families to look at a roster spot, game minutes, a coaching staff’s favor and approval - as tickets to a better life. Pay close attention to who says what, if anything at all. If you’re not enraged by the avoidable accident that took the lives of two young men, if your instinct is to protect an institution’s reputation over condemning those responosible for two boys dying, if you would rather be silent because you’re worried about relationships or your place in the industry, then you’re part of the problem. This was avoidable. This was negligent. It’s only basketball, ffs. There are people responsible. Hold them accountable.