On Thursday, the Brooklyn Nets announced that Kyrie Irving had been suspended at least five games without pay.
That decision was reached following Irving’s promotion of a film the Nets say is “deeply disturbing antisemitic hate.” They offered further explanation in a lengthy statement.
“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. 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,” the statement read, in part.
“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.”
Nets general manager Sean Marks later said that Irving’s apology wouldn't be enough to lift the suspension and that he would have to meet with Jewish leaders.
Even if those meetings were to occur, it may not be enough.
During an appearance on "First Take" on Friday, Stephen A. Smith revealed that Nets owner Joe Tsai is “completely done” with Irving.
Irving has long been a distraction for the Nets due to some of his personal beliefs, including theories about flat Earth and COVID-19 vaccinations. But promotion of an antisemitic film was the straw that broke the camel’s back.
If not for a player option, Irving would already be out of Brooklyn. And following this latest round of issues, it’s hard to imagine he’ll ever put a Nets uniform on again.
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