As is standard, reporter Brooke Olzendam conducted a halftime interview with a member of the Portland Trail Blazers’ coaching staff, and assistant coach Jonathan Yim used his platform to speak out against the increase in hate crimes perpetuated against members of the Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) community.
“I would be remiss if I didn’t use this opportunity to address the rise in hate crimes against Asian Americans, especially those against the elderly and women. This year made me realize how important it is to use my voice, to raise awareness and to fight against hate and injustice against all races including the Asian American Pacific Islander community.