Less than a week after a video surfaced showing Meyers Leonard using an anti-Semitic slur, the NBA revealed the consequences for the Miami Heat player.
As outlined in a press release, the league fined Leonard $50,000, suspended him from all team activities for one week, and mandated his participation in a cultural diversity program.
In a statement, league commissioner Adam Silver expressed his disapproval of Leonard’s actions and stressed the importance of upholding the NBA’s values of equality, tolerance, inclusion, and respect.
Many on social media expressed dissatisfaction with the announced penalties:
Aside from the specified measures, social media was abuzz with criticism over the perceived leniency of Leonard’s punishment, with many questioning the adequacy of the fine and suspension.https://t.co/aBmbGs5re8
— Kourtniey Wilson (@kourtnieyyy) March 11, 2021
The 11th overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft, Leonard is averaging 3.3 points per game in the 2020-21 season.
Unfortunately, he only managed to play three games this year as he underwent season-ending shoulder surgery.
