Heat's Meyers Leonard apologizes for using anti-Semitic slur during video game stream
Miami Heat center Meyers Leonard apologized Tuesday night for using an anti-Semitic slur during a video game stream on Twitch.
The 29-year-old released a statement on social media, claiming he "didn't know what the word meant at the time" and that his "ignorance about its history and how offensive it is to the Jewish community is absolutely not an excuse."
Leonard was caught on video saying, "F—— cowards, don't f—— snipe at me you f—— K— b—-" while playing "Call of Duty."
The NBA released a statement on Tuesday about the incident, saying they were "aware of the video" and were gathering "more information" before adding that they "unequivocally condemn all forms of hate speech."
Miami also announced that Leonard will be away from the team "indefinitely" after using the slur, saying the organization "vehemently condemns the use of any form of hate speech."
According to Andy Slater of Fox Sports 640 Florida, Leonard lost his gaming sponsorship with ORIGIN PC due to the incident.
Many believed the Heat would part ways with Leonard during the offseason, even before the incident occurred. He appeared in only three games this season before undergoing season-ending shoulder surgery.
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