After last night’s game 6 in Indiana, Roy Hibbert made a big mistake that is costing him a lot of money. Â During a post game interview, the Pacers center used the term “no homo” when asked about defending Lebron James. Hibbert also referred to the media as “m*ther f*ckers”, but that was clearly less significant as the media are used to being harassed. Â Hibbert immediately knew it was a dumb thing to say and that he would face disciplinary actions. Â While some thought he would be suspended for the pivotal game 7 in Miami, instead he was hit with a $75,000 fine.
While many find the fine excessive, it only proves David Stern’s point that there will be zero tolerance of homophobia. Â The NBA, along with other major sports, are trying to spread acceptance and by allowing players to use phrases like this it only sets them back. Â Acceptance is a major issue in this country especially in professional sports. Â Not saying that athletes are homophobic, but there is a stigma that they are.
While Hibbert’s comment was not directed at anyone, by setting down a precedent, Commissioner Stern has shown players that it will cost them a lot of money to be ignorant. Â The punishment will also allow more players to feel comfortable with their sexuality in knowing that discrimination will not be tolerated. Â It may seem unfair to make Hibbert an example, but it had to happen. Â If he faced no punishment, then Jason Collins coming out of the closet would have been in vain.
