The Brooklyn Nets suspended Kyrie Irving for a period of at least five games on Thursday night, in part because he passed up an opportunity to issue an unqualified apology to the Jewish community in another chaotic press session earlier that day.
Adam Silver said in an earlier statement that he was disappointed Irving did not apologize, and the commissioner is set to personally meet with Irving next week.
After the Nets’ announcement was made, Irving offered an apology on his Instagram page.
“I am grateful to have a big platform to share knowledge and I want to move forward by having an open dialogue to learn more and grow from this.
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- semticism 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.”
https://www.instagram.com/p/Ckhj8iIu0HN/
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