He doesn't really need the platform of the NBA anymore. He could hold a press conference that's bigger than the one at the end of the Finals (hell, he already did something like that with The Decision).

I understand what you're saying if, say, Derrick Jones on the HEat wanted to jump out there and say something meaningful. THat's the kind of level Carlos and Smith were at heading into the Olympics.. known in their field and by fans but not recognizable by the general public except in the context of being a (potential) champion in their sport.

So yeah, I see alot of benefit with the NBA superstars continuing to boycott games. People around the world know their names and follow what they do.