Brooklyn Nets guard Kyrie Irving and the Nets organization have each been fined $25,000 for violating league rules governing media interview access, the NBA announced yesterday.
The fines result from Irving’s refusal on several occasions this week to participate in team media availability.
Stephen A. Smith of ESPN’s First Take blasted Irving for his decision not to engage with media which he considers to be an essential part of a professional NBA player’s role.
“Kyrie Irving should not be forced to engage with the meda. If he doesn’t want talk to the media, fine. We won’t miss him. Here’s the reality, he should be fined every damn day he doesn’t,” explained the legendary sports journalist.
At press time, Kyrie Irving has yet to respond to the fine or Smith’s commentary.
