Brooklyn Nets and star PG Kyrie Irving seemed to reach their breaking point Thursday night. According to Sporting News, the Brooklyn Nets announced that Irving would be getting suspended for at least five games without pay. Irving failed to apologize for a social media post linked to a problematic documentary.
However, the seven-time All-Star told reporters he was responsible for promoting hateful speech. Many are disgruntled with the decision of the Nets. However, action must have been taken against the backlash. Over the years, Irving has caused ripples through the organization through his antics.
In a media session, Kyrie’s response regarding his beliefs and the objectionable material in the film was disappointing. Despite having previous opportunities to clarify, he failed to unequivocally state that he has no antisemitic beliefs or address the specific hateful content.
This failure to disavow antisemitism is profoundly concerning when presented with a clear chance to do so. It goes against our organization’s values and is considered detrimental to the team. Consequently, we believe he is unfit to be associated with the Brooklyn Nets.
Eventually, Irving did apologize on Instagram, albeit reluctantly.
“I had no intention of disrespecting the Holocaust or perpetuating hate towards any Jewish cultural history,” Irving expressed. “I am taking this unfortunate event as a learning experience, and I hope we can all find understanding among ourselves.”
