[x]

Sure, you shouldn't play the race card whenever somebody says something you don't like. Overuse means that the term is worn out by the time it's really needed.

But "shut up and dribble" is the sort of thing that's bound to bring an angry response today. When everybody's expressing opinions all the time, why should athletes be excluded?

The idea that athletes or entertainers are only around to amuse an audience, doesn't really fit an age when everybody else is always opining about something.

[Kazan]

If they are going to express an opinion, they should expect to have their comments scrutinized and enough decency not to cry racism when they are criticized.