Several fans had a strong message for the Brooklyn Nets amid Kyrie Irving‘s backlash for posting about an antisemitic movie on social media — donning yarmulkes and “fight antisemitism” shirts while sitting courtside at the game.
The group sat near the Indiana bench during the Pacers vs. Nets matchup in Brooklyn … and Kyrie reportedly acknowledged them by making a thumbs-up gesture.
One of the fans claims Irving spoke to them during the contest … saying he was “grateful for you guys,” although they felt it was in a sarcastic tone, according to the New York Post.
The fan said the shirts were a message for the Nets … adding the team should cut ties with Irving.
The move comes on the heels of Kyrie’s decision to tweet out a link to “Hebrews to Negroes: Wake Up Black America,” a movie that has been accused of being filled with stereotypes and tropes.
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Kyrie Irving Pushes Back on Antisemitic Labels After Promoting Movie
Kyrie defended the move … saying he “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,” he added. “I embrace and want to learn from all walks of life and religions.”
Joe Tsai — the owner of the Nets — spoke out against Irving’s post … saying he was disappointed in the superstar’s decision to share the project.
Two days after posting a link to an antisemitic film (that’s still up), here’s Kyrie Irving:
– Claiming that posting a link to something isn’t promoting it 🤔
– Playing the victim
– Accusing a journalist of “dehumanizing” him by simply asking about itpic.twitter.com/qGdDVO7awA
— Kendall Baker (@kendallbaker) October 30, 2022
@kendallbaker
Tsai also said he wanted to meet with Irving to help him understand why his actions were hurtful.
Kanye West — who is also facing his own backlash — commented on Kyrie’s actions … calling him a “real one.”
As for the game, the Nets won 116-109 … with Irving earning 28 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists.
He did not speak with the media after the contest.
