New York (AFP)

Former NBA double MVP Steve Nash, named Brooklyn Nets new coach last week, admitted Wednesday that there is a "white privilege" but denies having taken advantage of it, despite having no previous experience in his new role as coach.

"I have enjoyed white privilege. I am not saying white privilege was a factor for this position. But we white people have to understand that we have a privilege and an advantage because of skin color in our society. And we have a long way to go to achieve social equality and racial justice, ”Nash said during his official presentation.

"I am very sensitive to these causes and I hope to be an ally, but I am not sure that (my appointment) is really an example that corresponds to the problem," added the 46-year-old Canadian.

The debate was launched last week by an ESPN reporter, arguing that choosing Nash was a "white privilege".

"That doesn't happen for a black man. No experience at any level as a coach, and you get the Brooklyn Nets job?"

thus declared Stephen Anthony Smith on the antenna of the American chain.

Among the competitors of Nash was notably the African-American veteran Jaque Vaughn, assistant to Kenny Atkinson sacked during the season, and who assured the interim at Disney World, where the Nets were eliminated in the first round of the play-offs by defending champion Toronto.

Vaughn will resume his role as deputy to Nash.

As such, the latter admitted that he had somehow "doubled the line", because unlike the usual course of young coaches, whether they were former stars or not, he did not first pass by the assistant coach box in the league.

But he said he was legitimate, due to his experience at the top of the league during the 18 years he played.

"To be the leader of NBA teams for almost two decades is quite unique. It's not like I was left in the shadows. I have learned a lot in my career," he said to About his ability to manage men and lead troops.

Nash also highlighted his role as a player development consultant with the Golden State Warriors in recent years, and his collaboration with coach Steve Kerr, crowned by two winning campaigns (2017, 2018) that have borne the seal. of Kevin Durant that he will find and train at the Nets.

© 2020 AFP