UNC head men’s basketball coach Roy Williams took some time during Media Day on Tuesday to address the ongoing controversy in the sports world surrounding San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick.

By refusing to stand for the national anthem before games, Kaepernick has sent shockwaves through most of America–using his actions to help create dialogue about the racial inequalities that exist in the country.

Many other players across several different sports have since followed suit, in an effort to keep the conversation in the news cycle.

San Francisco 49ers safety Eric Reid (left) kneels during the National Anthem next to quarterback Colin Kaepernick (right). (AP Photo/ Mike McCarn)

San Francisco 49ers safety Eric Reid (left) kneels during the National Anthem next to quarterback Colin Kaepernick (right). (AP Photo/ Mike McCarn)

“I don’t mind telling you–I try to be straight forward when I can–when [Kaepernick] first did it, it made me very angry,” Williams told reporters.

Soon after, the coach brought his team together for a meeting to discuss the issue–but with a different mindset.

“Then he explained himself more, and I listened better” the coach added. “He wasn’t saying this is a bad country. He was saying we’ve got one particular problem he was taking a stance on–and I think he’s correct.”

After making his views clear to the players, Williams asked them each to come to him if they had any issues or questions with what’s going in the world–so they’d be able to mutually help each other reach a common understanding.

Soon after that meeting, Williams said two players came to him for an opinion as the violent protests in Charlotte surrounding the police killing of Keith Lamont Scott were reaching their peak.

“I think we have a very significant problem throughout our entire country,” Williams said. “There’s a lot of different things I’m watching people debate on TV. That’s for sure.”

As far as what would happen if any member of the Tar Heels decided to make a stand on any social issue–whether it be following Kaepernick or another form of protest–it would be allowed, as long as they discuss it with the coach beforehand.

“I may disagree with you, but I’ll be with you,” Williams said, imagining a situation where he was having that discussion with a player. “Just don’t surprise me.”

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