Sanders responds to de Blasio's invitation to play for the Nets

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Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Bernie SandersBernie SandersThe Hill’s 12:30 Report: Milley apologizes for church photo-op Harris grapples with defund the police movement amid veep talk Biden courts younger voters — who have been a weakness MORE (I-Vt.) responded this week to a suggestion by fellow 2020 contender, New York City Mayor Bill de BlasioBill de BlasioProtesters splash red paint on NYC streets to symbolize blood De Blasio: Robert E Lee’s ‘name should be taken off everything in America, period’ House Democratic whip pushes back on calls to defund police: We need to focus on reform MORE, that he join the Brooklyn Nets after the two traded quips about the Vermont senator’s basketball skills.

“Not bad, @BernieSanders!” de Blasio tweeted in response to a video of Sanders making multiple baskets at an arcade basketball game. De Blasio then suggested his fellow presidential candidate should substitute for Brooklyn Nets small forward Kevin Durant.

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“.@BernieSanders used to ball in Midwood back in the day and can still hoop, but we’re happy with our roster!” the NBA team’s Twitter account responded.

“I’ll be occupied through 2028, but thanks for thinking of me,” Sanders replied.

Sanders was an avid basketball player in his youth. A former teammate from Burlington, Vt., where Sanders served as mayor, told The Guardian in 2016, “From mid-range, 10-15 feet, he could kill you.”

Sanders also played with his grandchildren in February 2016, shortly after his victory in the New Hampshire Democratic primary for the party’s presidential nomination.