The Nets announced their decision to suspend Kyrie Irving on Thursday as the star guard continues to face backlash from his recent promotion of an antisemitic film and book on social media.
Brooklyn issued a statement announcing Irving will be suspended without pay “until he satisfies a series of objective remedial measures that address the harmful impact of his conduct.” The team did not specify the length of the suspension but noted it will last for “no less than five games.”
“Over the last several days, we have made repeated attempts to work with Kyrie Irving to help him understand the harm and danger of his words and actions, which began with him publicizing a film containing deeply disturbing antisemitic hate,” the team said. “We believed that taking the path of education in this challenging situation would be the right one and thought that we had made progress with our joint commitment to eradicating hate and intolerance.
“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.
“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.”
The suspension comes just hours after NBA commissioner Adam Silver denounced Irving’s endorsement of the documentary, Hebrews to Negroes: Wake Up Black America on Twitter which Irving again refused to apologize for while speaking to reporters Thursday afternoon. Silver also said he intended to meet with the former All-Star next week.
“I didn’t mean to cause any harm,” Irving said. “I’m not the one who made the documentary.”
When asked what specifically from the film did not line up with his beliefs, Irving said, “Some of the criticism of the Jewish faith and the community, for sure. Some points made in there that were unfortunate.”
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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