Kyrie Irving was suspended by the Brooklyn Nets for at least five games without pay after his team said he “refused to confess his beliefs.” Irving’s punishment came after the scandal caused by his publication on social networks.

The Nets ace tweeted a link to the 2018 film Jew Negro: Wake Up Black America, which is based on the 2015 book of the same name and is full of anti-Semitic comments.

“Over the past few days, we have made repeated attempts to speak with Kyrie Irving and make him understand the dangers and harm that his words and actions can cause, which began with the promotion of a film containing deep anti-Semitic hatred. We felt it was best to take the path of education, and we felt that we would make progress in our common quest to eradicate hatred and intolerance.

We were disappointed today when we were given a chance at a standard press meeting where Kairi categorically refused to state that she did not hold anti-Semitic beliefs and that she acknowledged the hateful material in the film. This was not the first time, he had the opportunity – but could not – to clarify his position.

Not condemning anti-Semitism at this opportunity is deeply disturbing and contrary to the values ​​of our organization. We don’t think he belongs in the Brooklyn Nets.

We have decided that Kairi will be suspended without pay until he completes a series of corrective actions to address the consequences of his behavior. His punishment will be at least five games.”

Statement from the Brooklyn Nets pic.twitter.com/699px8XYpx

— Brooklyn Nets (@BrooklynNets) November 4, 2022