Rockets’ Robert Covington says a cop once threatened to break his leg

Houston Rockets forward Robert Covington recently recalled some run-ins he’s had with the police, including a cop threatening to break his leg.

Several members of the Houston Rockets have been outspoken when it comes to the country’s movement for racial justice and equality. From Russell Westbrook attending marches to Austin Rivers speaking out, the team has been vocal and with good reason. New addition Robert Covington has also been making his voice heard regarding the issues facing the United States.

Covington recently joined The Tidal League Podcast to discuss the resumption of the NBA season as well as how he’s fighting for the Black Lives Matter movement. With police brutality being a major issue needing a change in the country, he also brought up some encounters he’s had with the police in the past.

“Every day, we come out here and we fear for our lives,” said Covington. “And I say that as a black man that’s a figure.” Although professional athletes are well-known, Covington’s point is pretty clear: skin color seems to hold way too much weight when it comes to the use of force.

“I had gotten stuck in the back of a police car,” began Covington. “I couldn’t maneuver myself out without causing any pain. The cop basically told me ‘if you don’t get out of this car, I’m gonna break your leg and I’m gonna pull you out of this car in some way, shape or form.”

The worst part? Covington was only a kid when the incident happened. “I’m a 12, 13-year-old kid that ain’t done nothing wrong,” continued Robert. “The reason I got arrested in the first place was because of other people. I was sitting on my front porch but you got other kids that were making a fool.”

Stories like Covington’s are abundant among the African American community, which is why so many people of all races across the country are taking a stand for change to finally happen.

I highly recommend listening to the full episode above to hear more about Covington’s experiences, as well as what he’s doing to make a change for the better.