Kyrie Irving has been suspended by the Nets for posting antisemitic material online.
The Brooklyn Nets have suspended Kyrie Irving for at least five games without pay, before he apologised for sharing antisemitic material online.
Irving initially refused to issue the apology to the NBA Commissioner Adam Silver for posting a link to an antisemitic work on his Twitter feed, the Nets stated that Irving is currently not fit to be associated with the Brooklyn Nets, saying they were dismayed by his failure to unequivocally say he has no antisemitic beliefs.
“We were dismayed today, when given an opportunity in a media session, that Kyrie refused to unequivocally say he has no antisemitic beliefs, nor acknowledge specific hateful material in the film. This was not the first time he had the opportunity but failed to clarify,” the Nets said in a statement.
“Such failure to disavow antisemitism when given a clear opportunity to do so is deeply disturbing, is against the values of our organization, and constitutes conduct detrimental to the team. Accordingly, we are of the view that he is currently unfit to be associated with the Brooklyn Nets.”
Irving took to his Instagram to respond to the issue, stating that: “To All Jewish families and communities that are hurt and affected from my post, I am deeply sorry to have caused you pain, and I apologize.
“I initially reacted out of emotion to being unjustly labelled Anti-Semitic, instead of focusing on the healing process of my Jewish Brothers and Sisters that were hurt from the hateful remarks made in the Documentary.
“I had no intentions to disrespect any Jewish cultural history regarding the Holocaust or perpetuate any hate. I am learning from this unfortunate event and hope we can find understanding between us all. I am no different than any other human being. I am a seeker of truth and knowledge, and I know who I Am.”
