Just hours after the Nets announced that they would be suspending star point guard Kyrie Irving for at least five games, without pay, for sharing a link to a film on Twitter filled with hurtful antisemitic falsehoods, leaving it up for days and then struggling to exhibit contrition through a series of combative media interactions, Irving himself has now issued a statement on his personal Instagram account officially, directly apologizing for his recent actions and behavior.
“While doing research on YHWH, I posted a Documentary that contained some false anti-Semitic statements, narratives, and language that were untrue and offensive to the Jewish Race/Religion, and I take full accountability and responsibly for my actions,” Irving wrote. “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 labeled 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 want to clarify any confusion on where I stand fighting against Anti-[semiticism] by apologizing for posting the documentary without context and a factual explanation outlining the specific beliefs in the Documentary I agreed with and disagreed with. 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.”
What further actions Brooklyn expects from him remains to be seen. It seems possible that further conversations with the team’s majority owner Joe Tsai, league commissioner Adam Silver and Anti-Defamation League CEO Jonathan Greenblatt may be required before the 2-6 Nets, who desperately need him on the court, welcome him back into the fold. This letter marks an encouraging step for Irving’s eventual return to Brooklyn and the NBA.
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