Kyrie Irving He will donate to anti-hate groups and stated that he supports hatred and oppression. But commissioner Adam Silver doesn’t believe it’s enough.
The Brooklyn Nets Star has come under fire for linking to antisemitic movies and books on social media. Joe Tsai called him out, and he took down the post. However, he stated in a press conference that he was not going to stop believing in anything.
Although the NBA and players union condemned hate speech, they did not name Irving until today.
Stern stated that Kyrie Irving posted a link to an antisemitic film in a reckless move. We appreciate his willingness to work with the Brooklyn Nets, the Anti-Defamation League and other forms discrimination. However, we are disappointed that he did not offer an unqualified apology and denounce the harmful and vile content of the film that he chose to make public. “I will meet with Kyrie personally in the next week to discuss these issues.”
Irving and the Nets said Wednesday that each would donate $500,000.
Irving, the Nets, and the Anti-Defamation League issued a joint statement Wednesday night announcing the donation.
Irving stated in the statement that he opposed all forms of hatred, oppression, and stood strong with communities who are marginalized and impacted every single day. “I am conscious of the negative effect my post has on the Jewish community and take responsibility. I don’t believe that everything in the documentary is true. It does not reflect my morals or principles. I am a human being, and I want to learn from all walks of my life. I will do this with an open mind. We, my family, and I, meant no harm to any group, race, or religion of people and wished to be a beacon for truth and light.
Irving first posted about the movie, “Hebrews to Negroes Wake Up Black America,” late last Wednesday.
The Nets will practice on Thursday ahead of Friday’s game against Philadelphia Washington Wizards Washington, D.C. Irving’s address to the media is unknown.