The Nets’ nightmare of a week continues.
Earlier this week, Brooklyn fired head coach Steve Nash and is reportedly prepared to move on to Celtics suspended head coach Ime Udoka.
Amidst all of that, the organization is dealing with the fallout from All-Star guard Kyrie Irving’s antisemitic comments and Irving’s failure to apologize has now led to a suspension.
The Nets announced on Thursday that Irving will be suspended for “no less than” five games without pay.
You can find the full statement below.
Nets suspend Kyrie Irving for “no less than” five games
Following yet another disappointing media availability from Irving on Thursday, the Nets announced Irving will be suspended for “no less than” five games without pay.
Statement from the Brooklyn Nets pic.twitter.com/699px8XYpx
— Brooklyn Nets (@BrooklynNets) November 4, 2022
“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 and antisemitic hate,” the statement reads.
“…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,” it continued.
“…Accordingly, we are of the view that he is currently unfit to be associated with the Brooklyn Nets. We have decided that Kyrie will serve a suspension without pay until he satisfies a series of objective remedial measures that address the harmful impact of his conduct and the suspension period served is no less than five games.”
On Wednesday, Irving and the Nets issued a statement that they would combine to donate $1 million to organizations that strive to ‘eradicate hate.’
Irving had a written apology, which was quickly contradicted by his comments during his media availability on Thursday.
“I am aware of the negative impact of my post towards the Jewish community and I take responsibility,” Irving said.
“I do not believe everything said in the documentary was true or reflects my morals and principles. I am a human being learning from all walks of life and I intend to do so with an open mind and a willingness to listen. So from my family and I, we meant no harm to any one group, race, or religion of people, and wish to only be a beacon of truth and light.”
Nets owner Joe Tsai and the NBA had both previously released statements on the situation as well, condemning Irving’s views before it led to his suspension.
