Rajon Rondo says he ‘did not mean to offend or disrespect anyone’ by calling ref a gay slur
Sacramento Kings point guard Rajon Rondo said Monday that he meant no offense or disrespect when he called NBA referee Bill Kennedy, who revealed he is gay Monday, a gay slur.
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Rondo was suspended one game by the NBA for the outburst that got him ejected from a December 3 game against the Boston Celtics, his former team.
“You’re a mother-f—ing f—–. … You’re a f—ing f—–, Billy,’’ Rondo said, according to a league investigation, per Yahoo Sports.
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Kings Owner Vivek Ranadivé released a statement Monday, denouncing Rondo’s actions.
“Rajon’s comment is not reflective of the culture of the Sacramento Kings organization or the world we want to live in,’’ Ranadivé said. “He’s apologized, and has been suspended by the NBA. On behalf of the team, I apologize to Bill Kennedy for any harm this may have caused.’’
Vlade Divac, the team’s general manager, also released a statement.
“Rajon’s comment was disrespectful and offensive, and we wholeheartedly disapprove of any language that discriminates or disparages others based on sexual orientation or anything else,’’ Divac said. “Rajon has apologized and this is not the sort of behavior we condone nor is it representative of the Sacramento Kings organization.’’ According to USA Today, the point guard avoided reporters after the Kings’ practice Monday.
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