LiAngelo Ball, a kid who literally has his entire life mapped out for him, was finally released from the custody of the Chinese government, alongside his two teammates – and they have President Donald Trump to thank!
According to the Wall Street Journal, the players were seen boarding a Delta flight to return home, after being detained for over 7 days. Donald Trump, who just happened to be on tour, was able to speak with Chinese President Xi Jinping about the players during his trip to Asia – and in less than 24 hours, they were released.
This is definitely a win for Donald Trump. This shows that he can be a great negotiator, and it also shows that he had he cared enough to take a moment during his important, diplomatic trip to China, in order to discuss releasing them from the custody of the Chinese government. Although here in America, shoplifting may not seem like a big deal, however in China, LiAngelo Ball, Cody Riley, and Jalen Hill could have faced up to 10 years in a Chines prison. We also know that Ball’s loud, outspoken dad, LaVar Ball loves sharing the things Trump says, and is somewhat of a fan of the President, so we will probably be hearing plenty of Presidential shout-outs during Ball’s interviews.
This story can be a great teaching opportunity for kids. These players, who are a part of one of the best basketball squads at the college level, almost had their lives and their freedom snatched away because of bad choices, bad influences, and bad judgement. Any person with common sense knows not to steal, but going to a foreign country to steal – especially a country like China who’s government is stern and strict, is simply ludicrous! Though these kids are young, and people make mistakes, this is a lesson for all kids and teens that their bad choices may not end with the POTUS coming to save their lives. Bad choices could change the trajectory of their futures forever. Let’s hope these players learn from this and continue to live successful lives.
Source: Wall Street Journal
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