Nets Suspend Kyrie Irving After Press Conference Debacle
The Nets have had enough. After doing everything they could to try to smooth over the situation over Kyrie Irving’s controversial social media posts that promoted an antisemitic film, Irving…
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 01: Kyrie Irving #11 of the Brooklyn Nets brings the ball up the court during the fourth quarter of the game against the Chicago Bulls at Barclays Center on November 01, 2022 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images)
The Nets have had enough. After doing everything they could to try to smooth over the situation over Kyrie Irving's controversial social media posts that promoted an antisemitic film, Irving was suspended at least five games after he failed to "unequivocally say he has no antisemitic beliefs" during a press conference with reporters on Thursday.
In speaking with reporters, Irving refused to directly answer a reporters question whether he was not antisemitic, saying only: "This is not going to turn into a spin around cycle of questions after questions. I told you guys how I felt. I respect all walks of life. I can't be antisemitic if I know where I come from."
Irving later didn't apologize saying that some of the facts in the controversial "Hebrews to Negroes: Wake up Black America" were untrue.
The comments came hours after the Nets, Irving and the Anti-Defamation league put out a statement that the Nets and Irving would be putting up $500,000 for educational programs to teach people about tolerance for all religions, races and creeds.
Commissioner Adam Silver issued a statement earlier Thursday, the first time he has broached the subject after a week of criticism from many for staying silent. Silver also said he was disappointed in Irving's comments.
Is this the end of Kyrie Irving?
The Nets issued a statement saying they were "dismayed" that Irving refused to "unequivocally" say he has no antisemitic beliefs. While the suspension is five games, many reason that this could be end of the line for Iriving's controversial stay in Brooklyn.
The Anti-Defamation League Responds
The Anti-defamation League issued a statement late Thursday, commending the Nets for taking swift action after Irving's latest press conference debacle. Jonathan Greenblat wrote on Twitter, "Good for the Brooklyn Nets. Kyrie Irving was given ample opportunity to do the right thing and apologize and condemn antisemitism."
Other Reactions to Kyrie News
Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr who was out front on the social justice front two years ago also commented on the Kyrie Iriving news on Thursday.
Politicians weigh in
Democratic congressman from New York Daniel Goldman chimed in.
Governor Murphy on protecting synogoges
Meanwhile, in a separate incident, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy issued this statement regarding a threat to synagogues in New Jersey.
Another controversy on the way?
The Nets are still trying to hire a permanent head coach. They have been linked to Boston's suspended Ime Udoka, who was suspended for an inappropriate relationship with a female staffer. Many have criticized the Nets over women's rights should they make the Udoka hire.
