Jaylen Brown believes Kyrie Irving doesn't have anti-semitic beliefs: “The terms for his return, they seem like a lot, and a lot of the players expressed discomfort with the terms"
All-Star Jaylen Brown shared his sentiments regarding the situation with the Brooklyn Nets and Kyrie Irving. The Boston Celtics swingman thinks that his former teammate is not anti-Semitic and merely made a mistake.
Brown was asked about his opinion on Irving after his suspension was made public. In an interview with the Boston Globe's Gary Washburn, he said:
"I don't believe Kyrie Irving is anti-Semitic."
On what Irving has to do to get back on the court, Brown continued:
"The terms for his return, they seem like a lot, and a lot of the players expressed discomfort with the terms.
Jaylen Brown: “I don't believe Kyrie Irving is antisemitic,”
“The terms for his return, they seem like a lot, and a lot of the players expressed discomfort with the terms. He made a mistake. He posted something. There was no distinction.”
(Via @GwashburnGlobe ) https://t.co/2imvs4Pyol
"He made a mistake. He posted something. There was no distinction."
The Nets guard was suspended for atleast five games last week for his social media actions regarding a controversial film he shared. Irving also has to complete a series of tasks before he can return to the court.
Sources: Nets have delivered Kyrie Irving six items he must complete to return to team:
- Apologize/condemn movie
- $500K donation to anti-hate causes
- Sensitivity training
- Antisemitic training
- Meet with ADL, Jewish leaders
- Meet with Joe Tsai to demonstrate understanding
A few weeks ago, many were focused on Irving's antics after Brooklyn Nets owner Joe Tsai called the star out for posting a link to a controversial film. ESPN's Nick Friedell later questioned him about it. The events in Brooklyn led to a ton of back-and-forth between the seven-time All-Star and the media.
It all culminated in the Nets organization suspending Irving before he posted an apology on his Instagram account. Nike also announced that they have terminated their partnership with Irving. The shoe giant has decided not to release the new Kyrie 8.
The Nets have a 2-1 record without Uncle Drew on the floor. Nic Claxton and Cam Thomas have stepped up in light of Irving's absence. Brooklyn's next game will be against their rivals, the New York Knicks, on November 9.
Also read: Kyrie Irving might not play in the NBA again: Anonymous NBA GM makes bold claim about Brooklyn Nets' guard
Is Kyrie Irving done in the NBA?
Irving is one of the best players in the league today. However, his recent actions have caused him to get in trouble and miss out on some games. Not only this season, but also in previous campaigns where he was unable to contribute to his team due to being unavailable despite being healthy.
Last season, Irving was limited to only 29 games because of his vaccine status. Luckily for him, the state of New York changed its laws regarding COVID-19 vaccination.
Irving publicizing the film "Hebrews to Negroes: Wake Up Black America" has landed him in more trouble. He has now lost a major sponsor and is closely being monitored by the NBA and the media. Going forward, teams could also be wary of offering big money contracts to Irving.
Also read: NBA analyst highlights major concerns with Kyrie Irving's irresponsible stances on multiple subjects: "This is where we have to see it from the lens of flat earth stuff"