The Q as site for NBA 2017 All-Star Game?

July 23, 2016 at 12:07a.m.

By CHARLES GROVE

Democratic representatives Tim Ryan, (OH-13), Marcy Kaptur (OH-9), Marcia Fudge (OH-11) and Joyce Beatty (OH-3) have sent an invite to NBA Commissioner Adam Silver to move the 2017 All-Star Game to Cleveland.

The NBA announced Thursday that it would not be having the All Star game in Charlotte, N.C., because of North Carolina’s House Bill 2, which was passed earlier this year. The act removes the statutory to enforce anti-discrimination statues in state courts but most famously legislated that people may only use restrooms in government buildings that correspond to the sex on their birth certificates.

Several musicians have canceled performances in North Carolina over the lay including Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band, Boston, Ringo Starr, Nick Jonas, Demi Lovato, Maroon 5 and others.

The NBA pulling out of the state with the All Star game has thrusted the sports world into the controversy.

Ryan said he believes Cleveland is a strong choice for the relocation.

“Cleveland is a great city, a tolerant city and a championship city,” Ryan said Friday. “I think it would provide an economic boost to the area and it would make the NBA proud to have the All-Star game here in a open-minded city like Cleveland.”

The foursome hasn’t spoken to the ownership of the Cavaliers about the suggestion, but wanted to put the idea in Silver’s mind.

“We just want to start the conversation and make sure Cleveland is kept in mind,” Ryan said. “It’s a city that can handle the type of show. We’ve seen that with the championship this year and the Republican National Convention as well.”