Demanding Black people to pledge allegiance to the flag or “honor” the national anthem is a demand to show gratitude for being here. And behind all of the “patriotic” rhetoric is the seething statement “You ought to be grateful that we let you live here”.
If the athletes are Black, there is a requirement that they show deference and gratitude for being able to play for an American team. Usually athletes are supposed to entertain. Black athletes are only valued for their ability to win awards and trophies for America. #Hate it!