Center Meyers Leonard will stay away from the Miami Heat indefinitely as the team and the NBA investigate its use of anti-Semitic slurry during Tuesday’s video game live stream.
Leonard issued a public apology as the Heat and the NBA condemned his earlier remarks.
Video clips circulating on social media showed Leonard uttering an offensive term while streaming a game of Call of Duty on Twitch.
Leonard wrote on Instagram, “I’m sorry for using anti-Semitic slurry during yesterday’s live stream. “Although I didn’t know what the word meant at the time, my ignorance of its history and how offensive it is to the Jewish community is no excuse and I was just wrong. I am now more aware of its meaning and am committed to properly seeking out people who can help educate me about this kind of hate and how we can fight it.
“I recognize and own my mistake and there is no running from something like this that is so damaging to someone else. … I promise to do better and know that my future actions will be more powerful than my use of this word. ”
The Heat wrote in a statement, “The Miami Heat wholeheartedly condemn the use of any form of hate speech. The words Meyers Leonard used were incorrect and we will not tolerate hateful language from anyone associated with our franchise. Hearing it from a Miami Heat player is especially disappointing and damaging to everyone who works here, as well as the larger communities of South Florida, Miami Heat and NBA. ”
NBA spokesman Mike Bass said in a statement, “We became aware of the video and are gathering more information. The NBA unequivocally condemns all forms of hate speech. ”
A keen gamer, Leonard had about 58,000 followers on Twitch on Tuesday afternoon. A nine-year NBA veteran announced his investment in esports organization FaZe Clan in 2019.
FaZe Clan on Tuesday posted on Twitter, “We were extremely disappointed to hear the Meyers stream today. FaZe does not tolerate hate speech or discriminatory language of any kind. Although Meyers is not a member of FaZe, we cut ties with him.
“This community has so much to do. Let’s be better together. ”
Leonard, 29, underwent surgery on his left shoulder last month and is expected to fail the rest of the season. He has not played since Jan. 9 and appeared in only three games this season, averaging 3.3 points and 2.3 rebounds.
The 7-foot player has averaged 5.6 points and 3.9 boards in 447 career games (93 starts) with the Portland Trail Blazers (2012-19) and Heat (2019-21).
—Field Media Media