"We can't just be accepting comments that are so destructive and insulting to people" - Steve Kerr reacts to Kyrie Irving controversy following guard's suspension
Kyrie Irving has been in the headlines since promoting an antisemitic film on social media. The Brooklyn Nets have suspended Irving for at least five games without pay. Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr gave his two cents regarding the issue.
Before the Warriors took on the Orlando Magic on Thursday, Kerr commented on Irving's issues. The four-time champion coach reckons people should think before posting anything on social media.
"We have to be more vigilant as a society," Kerr said. "And we can't just be so accepting of comments that are so destructive and insulting to people. And it's crucial to everybody, whether you're a professional athlete or not, it's crucial that everybody think before they just throw things out there that can be so damaging."
Irving drew the ire of a lot of people when he posted links to the controversial film and book "Hebrews to Negroes: Wake Up Black America" last week. Irving then doubled down on his actions several times before the Nets stepped in and suspended him for at least five games.
The Nets were upset at Irving for not issuing an apology for all the people he offended. The team deemed their star point guard as 'unfit to be associated with the Brooklyn Nets'. They would only welcome Irving back if he fulfills the team's guidelines.
"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," the Nets statement said.
As things stand, Irving is now set to miss games against the Washington Wizards, Charlotte Hornets, Dallas Mavericks, New York Knicks and LA Clippers.
Kyrie Irving finally apologized for his actions
A few hours after the Brooklyn Nets suspended Kyrie Irving for at least five games, the eccentric guard finally issued an apology.
Irving posted his apology on Instagram more than a week after promoting the aforementioned antisemitic film and defending his actions multiple times. He wrote:
"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."
He continued:
"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."
According to Stefan Bondy of the New York Daily News, Kyrie Irving sent his father and stepmother to meet with Anti-Defamation League representatives.
Due to Irving's actions, the film and book he promoted reached a lot of people. Anti-Defamation League CEO Jonathan Greenblatt is happy with Irving's apology but still want more from the player.