Kyrie Irving on Instagram post: “To all Jewish families and communities…I am deeply sorry to have caused you pain”

Kyrie Irving has finally issued an apology after getting suspended by the Brooklyn Nets. Irving caused controversy after promoting an antisemitic film on social media. He made it worse by defending his actions several times before he was suspended.

The Nets guard issued an apology on his Instagram account a few hours after his suspension was announced. The apology came more than a week after he posted a link to the "Hebrews to Negroes: Wake Up Black America" film filled with antisemitic tropes. Below is Irving's statement:

"To All Jewish families and Communities that are hurt and affected from my post, I am deeply sorry to have caused you pain, and I apologize.

"I initially reacted out of emotion to being unjustly labeled Anti-Semitic, instead of focusing on the healing process of my Jewish Brothers and Sisters that were hurt from the hateful remarks made in the Documentary.

"I had no intentions to disrespect any Jewish cultural history regarding the Holocaust or perpetuate any hate. I am learning from this unfortunate event and hope we can find understanding between us all. I am no different than any other human being. I am a seeker of truth and knowledge, and I know who I Am."

The Brooklyn Nets and Kyrie Irving initially released a statement saying that they will donate $500,000 each to help fight hate in the community. However, the Anti-Defamation League rejected Irving's donation after he failed to apologize for his actions.

NBA commissioner Adam Silver was also critical of Irving before his apology. Silver added that he will meet with the 30-year-old star next week. It's unclear if the meeting will still take place following Irving's apology and subsequent suspension by the Nets.

Irving has been suspended by the Nets for at least five games without pay. Like with Silver's meeting with Irving, it's unclear if the Nets will extend his suspension to more than five games after his apology.

The Nets, NBA, Adam Silver and the NBPA have all criticized Irving for his actions. NBA legends Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Charles Barkley and Shaquille O'Neal called out Irving, while Reggie Miller was disappointed by the lack of reaction from current NBA players.

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Kyrie Irving's future with the Brooklyn Nets

Kyrie Irving of the Brooklyn Nets

Kyrie Irving is playing in the final year of his contract with the Brooklyn Nets. He is set to become an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season. He's currently averaging 26.9 points, 5.1 rebounds, 5.1 assists, 1.4 steals and 1.1 blocks per game.

However, with all the controversy surrounding Irving at the moment, as well as his history of being a distraction, does he have a future with the Nets?

The Nets could explore the trade market and possibly get some assets back rather than lose him for free next summer. Brooklyn are off to a slow start this season despite having Kyrie Irving, Kevin Durant and Ben Simmons on their roster.

The Nets are currently 2-6 and are up against the Washington Wizards next at the Capital One Arena on Nov. 4.