Meyers Leonard: NBA player apologizes for using anti-Semitic failure while playing ‘Call of Duty’ live

Meyers Leonard: NBA player apologizes for using anti-Semitic failure while playing ‘Call of Duty’ live

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Leonard, a forward for the Miami Heat, played “Call of Duty: Warzone” on Monday when he said, “F ** king cowards. Do not fool me. U k *** b * tch. “

The video was never posted on Leonard’s verified Twitch channel, but the individual in the video appears to be the same person who appeared in other videos posted on Leonard’s channel on Monday.

“I am very sorry that I used an anti-Semitic failure during a live stream yesterday,” Leonard wrote in an Instagram post, adding that at the time he did not know what the word meant. “My ignorance of its history and how offensive it is to the Jewish community is absolutely no excuse, and I was just wrong.”

Leonard says he ‘is committed to properly seeking out those who can educate him on’ this kind of hatred and how we can fight it ‘. “

“I admit and own my mistake and there is no reason for something like that to hurt someone like that,” Leonard said.

Leonard does not refer to the sexist part of his remark in the apology.

NBA spokesman Mike Bass said in an email to CNN that the league “has just become aware of the video and is gathering more information.”

“The NBA condemns all forms of hate speech unequivocally,” Bass’s email said.

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The Heat have issued a statement saying the organization strongly condemns the use of any form of hate speech.

“The words used by Meyers Leonard were incorrect and we will not tolerate the hateful language of anyone associated with our concession,” the team said in a statement. “Meyers Leonard will be off the team indefinitely. The Miami HEAT will work with the NBA while he investigates.”

CNN Sports contacted Leonard’s agent but heard nothing about it.

Three of Leonard’s business partners broke up with him, including Origin PC, SCUF Gaming and ASTRO Gaming. Both Origin and SCUF say Leonard’s comments do not reflect their values ​​or views.

“ASTRO is committed to creating an inclusive gaming environment and one that combats racism and other forms of discrimination, retaliation and harassment. For this reason, we end our relationship with Meyers Leonard, which is effective immediately,” the statement said. of ASTRO Gaming.

The Portland Trail Blazers drafted Leonard into the 2012 NBA draft. He played seven seasons with the Trail Blazers and the last two with the Heat.

Leonard has played in three games for the Heat this season. He underwent a stabilization operation on his left shoulder on February 2 and is expected to miss the rest of the season.

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