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Meyers Leonard Suspended
The NBA suspended Miami Heat center Meyers Leonard for one-week and fined him $50,000 for Anti-Semitic slurs comments h recently made. While playing the popular multiplayer game Call of Duty Meyers Leonard used the term “K*** B****” on stream.
The term “K***” was a common insult for Jews in the early 20th century. The derogatory slang has its origins among Jews entering Ellis Island. As a result of not knowing the Latin alphabet they signed their entry forms with a circle instead of the customary X. Kikel is the word for circle in Yiddish and it was used by American immigration inspectors with those Jewish immigrants.
The NBA also requires Leonard to participate in a cultural diversity program because of his words. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver responded to the Anti-Semitic remarks with a zero tolerance policy.
Statement from NBA commissioner Adam Silver on Meyers Leonard: “Meyers Leonard’s comment was inexcusable and hurtful and such an offensive term has no place in the NBA or in our society.” pic.twitter.com/mYOMu67PNG
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) March 11, 2021
Leonard’s Statement
Leonard released this apology statement earlier this week.
Meyers Leonard releases a statement apologizing for his use of an anti-Semitic slur on a live stream pic.twitter.com/4iaTEdZCuL
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) March 10, 2021
Erik Spoelstra’s Reaction
Heat coach Erik Spoelstra and Leonard’s teammates also reacted to the comments he made after the Heat suspended the player indefinitely.
While Spoelstra acknowledged the fact that Leonard felt sorry for his comments, he also stated actions have consequences. Long-time Miami Heat player Udonis Haslem was also among players upset with the comments. the former Gator star said in an interview how close he was with his Jewish friends.
“I have a lot of Jewish friends and ya know, they call me Udonis Haslem-berg sometimes,” he said.
Leonard is not an important part of the Miami Heat rotation. He’s only played three games this season, starting two. While the Heat started off the season slowly they’ve been one of the hottest teams entering the All-Star break. They’ve won seven out of the last eight games before facing the Orlando Magic on Thursday.
