Kyrie Irving – Courtside Fans Wear ‘Fight Antisemitism’ Shirts Following The Basketball Star’s Recent Controversial Comments + Kyrie Responds: It’s Great To See You Here
Kyrie Irving – Courtside Fans Wear ‘Fight Antisemitism’ Shirts Following The Basketball Star’s Recent Controversial Comments + Kyrie Responds: It’s Great To See You Here
NBA star Kyrie Irving continues to catch heat from his recent controversial actions.
During his latest game, a group of basketball fans decided to send the shooting guard a message, donning yarmulkes and unified t-shirts with the words “fight antisemitism” across the chest. The move is seemingly in protest of Irving’s decision to share a documentary some have labeled as antisemitic.
The group reportedly sat on the bench closest to the Nets competitors for the night, the Indiana Pacers. Irving at one point in the game stopped to interact with the protesters, stating:
“Grateful for you….it’s great to see you here.”
Kyrie telling the Jewish fans in 'Fight Antisemitism" shirts that he's grateful for them pic.twitter.com/PCW1ZABhV8
— dave (@nbadaves) November 1, 2022
In the clip, you can hear members of the group responding “thank you Kyrie” while laughing. According to reports, some of the individuals stated after the game they feel Irving’s responses were in a sarcastic tone, adding they believe the Brooklyn Nets should drop the star athlete from their roster.
Just last week, the 30-year-old hooper came under fire for sharing a link to the film “Hebrews To Negros: Wake Up Black America” with his massive twitter following. The movie is accused of spewing several “Jewish stereotypes and antisemitic troupes”. However, the championship basketball player defended his decision to share the post when asked about it. Explaining that he respects all people and isn’t “here to be divisive”, Irving stated:
“I am an OMNIST and I meant no disrespect to anyone’s religious beliefs. The “Anti-Semitic” label that is being pushed on me is not justified and does not reflect the reality or truth I live in everyday. I embrace and want to learn from all walks of life and religions.”
During a recent press conference, the Nets star added that he refuses to stand down on anything he believes in. Reportedly, Irving did not speak with the media this time following a win against the Pacers. Nets owner Joe Tsai shared his”disappointment” with Irving’s post following the backlash, however, there has been no indication he plans to cut ties with the athlete at this time.
[VIA]
What are your thoughts on the fans’ t-shirts? Leave them in the comments section!