New York Knicks guard Josh Hart has stepped into a cultural firestorm, drawing both sharp criticism and applause for his vocal support of requiring Bible passages in Texas public schools.
The Texas State Board of Education voted 9-5-1 on Friday to adopt a new required reading list that includes biblical excerpts for students from fifth grade onward. The decision, backed by the Republican-controlled board, will affect more than 5 million students across the state.
What's on the Reading List?
According to reports, fifth graders will study passages from the Book of Exodus, while seventh graders will examine The Shepherd's Psalm. Board members argue that these texts offer “important insight into the moral and philosophical traditions that have shaped Western civilization.”
Julie Pickren, a Republican board member, told the Texas Tribune that “when students engage directly with original writings, speeches, sermons, and foundational texts, they can evaluate ideas and develop a deeper understanding of the principles that have shaped the USA and Texas.”
Hart's Post Sparks Debate
Hart, known for his gritty play on the court, took to social media to praise the move. “🔥🔥🔥 Whoever has ears let them hear,” he wrote, quoting a biblical phrase. The post quickly went viral, drawing reactions from fans and observers—including some who questioned the wisdom of mandating religious texts in public schools.
One fan responded, “All for spreading the gospel to those who choose to listen, but that freedom to choose needs to be protected. This vote is rooted more in indoctrination than the goodness of the heart.”
Another added, “You are free to observe religion however you want, but to force others to do so is wrong. It’s that simple.”
A third critic wrote, “If this was about faith that would be one thing but I’d suggest you do some research on why they are doing this.”
Still, Hart has not backed down from his stance, and his supporters have rallied behind him, pointing to the Bible's historical and literary significance.
The controversy comes amid a broader national conversation about the role of religion in public education—a debate that has also touched other sports figures. For context, the recent backlash over Caitlin Clark's injury shows how quickly sports stars can become entangled in cultural flashpoints.
Hart's position also echoes the broader tension between personal faith and public policy. While some see the curriculum as an educational tool, others view it as a violation of the separation of church and state. The Knicks guard, however, appears to see no conflict, standing firm in his belief that the Bible belongs in the classroom.
This isn't the first time a New York Knicks player has sparked debate off the court. A viral incident involving a Knicks fan recently highlighted the unpredictable nature of fan culture, but Hart's comments touch on something deeper—the intersection of sports, faith, and civic life.
As the 2026 NBA season approaches, it remains to be seen whether this controversy will follow Hart into the locker room. For now, the guard is letting his social media speak—and the responses keep coming.
