LGBTQ+ organization on Timberwolves' Anthony Edwards: 'Criticism is easy. Change takes work'

Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards continues to be in headlines regarding a since-deleted Instagram video he recently shared that featured him using homophobic language to describe a group of shirtless men from inside a vehicle.

Edwards apologized for his "immature, hurtful, and disrespectful" comments on Sunday afternoon, and Timberwolves team president Tim Connelly declared in a Monday statement that the club is "disappointed" in the 21-year-old. 

Jean-Marie Navetta, the director of learning and inclusion for the LGBTQ+ organization PFLAG National, suggested to TMZ Sports that the situation could ultimately serve as a positive opportunity for Edwards and for LGBTQ+ individuals, their families and allies.

"The impact that public figures like professional athletes have is tremendous, and in this case, the message that was sent was of shame and ridicule," Navetta said. "But, PFLAG believes that allies are all on a journey, and we hope this will be the beginning of a journey towards allyship for Anthony Edwards — and we're here and ready to help."

Connelly added in his statement that the Timberwolves "are committed to being an inclusive and welcoming organization for all and apologize for the offense this has caused to so many." 

Navetta made it clear PFLAG wants more from teams and institutions such as the NBA. 

"While no organization can possibly manage the beliefs and behaviors of everyone employed, when situations like this one arise, it's a powerful opportunity for organizations to step up and affirm their values, contrast them with what transpired, and spotlight the work happening inside the organization," Navetta said. 

"What we're looking for is a commitment to action to make sure it doesn't happen again. Criticism is easy. Change takes work."

ESPN's Tim Bontemps reported Monday that an NBA spokesperson confirmed the league is reviewing the matter. Previously, the Association has fined players such as Brooklyn Nets superstar Kevin Durant "for using offensive and derogatory language on social media." It's unknown if the Timberwolves will take any action outside of the statement.