The Brooklyn Nets suspended guard Kyrie Irving for at least 5 games without pay over his continued refusal to disavow antisemitism. The suspension was handed down Thursday hours after Irving refused to publicly apologize for his recent actions after NBA commissioner Adam Silver demanded one. It also comes the same day the FBI warned synagogues in New Jersey.
The Brooklyn Nets suspended guard Kyrie Irving for at least 5 games without pay over his continued refusal to disavow antisemitism.
The suspension was handed down Thursday hours after Irving refused to publicly apologize for his recent actions after NBA commissioner Adam Silver demanded one. It also comes the same day the FBI warned synagogues in New Jersey a credible threat had been received, leading to the 24-hour closure of at least one house of worship.
“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,” the Nets said in a statement.
“Such failure to disavow antisemitism when given a clear opportunity to do so is deeply disturbing, is against the values of our organization, and constitutes conduct detrimental to the team.
